The Irish government has requested that all pubs, including those in hotels, close from tonight for at least two weeks, in attend to control Covid-19. They've also asked for people not to throw or attend house parties.
The news comes a day after videos from packed Temple Bar pubs featuring 'Sweet Caroline' singsongs went viral around the world.
BREAKING: The government is asking all pubs, including hotel bars, to close from this evening until March 29 - and wants people not to throw house parties either. #covid19ireland
More on @VirginMediaNews at 5:30 on Virgin Media One pic.twitter.com/PbvipCuq4t— Gavan Reilly (@gavreilly) March 15, 2020
While necessary, this is a massive cultural happening. Pubs are only closed one day a year anymore, on Christmas Day. Now, we're looking at least two weeks without the option of a pint.
The announcement comes two days before St Patrick's Day. It was telling that the government also implored people not to throw or frequent house parties.
My brother is a full-time musician. Still getting calls from pubs to play arnd St Patrick’s Day. People asking him to play house parties if pubs close. Knocked it all back, took what precautions he could for his final booked gig last night. Pub jammed. We’re not getting the msg.
— Michael Foley (@MickFoley76) March 15, 2020
Earlier today, The Temple Bar Company revealed all pubs and nightclubs in the area were closing.
Temple Bar Company Statement #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/zrd5s5JrRG
— Love Temple Bar (@LoveTempleBar) March 15, 2020
