Local publicans ‘frustrated’ at reopening delay

Publicans across Offaly are “frustrated” and “bitterly disappointed” that they will not be able to open until August 10 following the decision to delay the roll-out of phase four of the Covid-19 roadmap.

Pubs that do not serve substantial meals were scheduled to reopen on Monday next, July 20. However, the government decided on Wednesday to postpone their reopening for three weeks amid growing fears of a second wave of Covid-19 hitting the country.

Speaking to the Offaly Independent, the Chairman of the Offaly branch of the Vintners Federation of Ireland, Cllr John Clendennen said that many local publicans had spent considerable time and money in preparation for a July 20 reopening.

“There is a level of frustration and bitter disappointment among members across Offaly and beyond. We waited with bated breath on Wednesday and many had ordered in stock and were ready to go next week, but now we are on hold again.

“What has happened in relation to the rise in cases, and the R rating hasn't been caused by publicans and yet we have seen to be suffering the consequences. We are now going to be closed for five months. From my perspective what is happening with house parties, you have to ask the question why are off-licences still open if alcohol is a reason for the rise in cases?” he said.

Cllr Clendennen, the proprietor of the Giltraps Pub Townhouse in Kinnity, said that when it comes to the reopening of businesses after lockdown there is “two-tier” system in the pub sector between those that serve food and those that don't. He wants all pubs to be treated the same.

“I want to see the same rules for everyone, the proper enforcement of guidelines and strict consequences for those individuals that breach them. At least then it that regard, you'd have fairness applied to everyone. When it comes to paying rates and taxes we are treated equally. We are looking for that level of equality to be returned now for everyone,” he said.

The period between St Patrick's Day and the end of August is the bar sector's equivalent of “silage season for farmers and sets them up for the year,” Cllr Clendennen said.

If the sector is to remain viable, a range of support measures need to be introduced in the government's upcoming stimulus package.

“We need to see VAT rates reduced. We need to see the wage subsidy scheme continued and to include seasonal workers. We need a grant system to support businesses when they reopen. We need to see low interest rates on loans and I think we need to have a big conversation now about the future of pubs and maintaining the sustainability long- term,” he said.