Restaurants can continue to provide takeaways as Ireland reopens – Richmond

Fine Gael TD Neale Richmond has welcomed confirmation from Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, Eoghan Murphy, that restaurants that are operating as takeaways can continue until November with no takeaway license.

Deputy Richmond said: “The past few months have been very difficult for small businesses, especially those in the hospitality sector.

“Many restaurants began to operate as takeaways to keep their doors open during the crisis. This allowed them to keep staff at work, while continuing to provide some normality to the public.

“This was facilitated by the Health Emergency Act which allows for restaurants to operate as takeaways without a takeaway license.

“The flexibility shown by restaurants and businesses in this regard has been a testament to their willingness to provide supports to their staff and to our communities.

“They have been quick to adapt at every turn, while always prioritizing the health and safety of staff and customers.”

Deputy Richmond continued: “It has been confirmed that this provision will now apply until at least 9th November 2020, and possibly later if the legislation is extended.

“This allows restaurants to continue to operate their takeaway functions when they re-open on June 29th. Customers who may be cocooning or vulnerable will still be able to support their local businesses.

“As we move forward in the reopening of society, it is vital that we stay local to prevent the further spread of the virus.

“Supporting our local shops and restaurants is a great way to give back to businesses that have helped our communities through these difficult past few months.

“Customers are now able to provide this support in a manner that suits their needs, be it by dining in, or taking their food home.”

ENDS