Nightclubs to reopen as social distancing axed
Nightclubs in Northern Ireland can reopen from October 31 after rules on dancing and social distancing in indoor venues were scrapped.
The Executive agreed to the move following a concerted campaign from the hospitality sector and while businesses will be asked to check for vaccine certificates it will not be a legal requirement.
Responding to the announcement, Colin Neill of Hospitality Ulster said: “The removal of social distancing will give hospitality businesses a huge lift as it will allow customers the opportunity to socialise normally and even enjoy a drink at the bar once again – a major element of our traditional pubs. This is a significant step forward for the industry today as many of the barriers to recovery are finally being removed.
“It is also great to see that nightclubs will return after nearly two years of going dark. Nightclubs have been a much-missed part of the hospitality offer, especially for younger generations who have been denied the freedoms of dancing, music and big nights out.
“Importantly, the real-life implications of these removals means that right across the industry, in our pubs, restaurants, coffee shops, hotels and our supply chain, jobs will be saved and protected.
‘Reassure customers’
“The Executive has asked for a voluntary vaccine passport initiative to be introduced. We will work in partnership with the Executive to develop guidance for our industry to ensure that hospitality businesses continue to provide a Covid secure environment as we return to proper trading.
“We encourage all business owners to take up the voluntary scheme and use it as an opportunity to reassure customers.”
“We look forward to working with Ministers on these next steps to recovery. Our industry stands ready to bounce back and bring prosperity to our economy as we begin the recovery process in earnest.”
First Minister Paul Givan welcomed the easing of restrictions, particularly for the the hospitality sector, which he said had been hit hard during the pandemic.
Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill said she was pleased progress had been made but warned increasing vaccination rates would also be a “crucially important” part of the Executive’s winter planning.
Reacting to the news of voluntary vaccine checks, Janice Gault, chief executive of the Northern Ireland, said: “There is recognition within the hotel sector that there is a balance to be found between a full reopening and the risk of COVID-19.
“The voluntary measures around assessing vaccine status, proof of testing or recovery will enable us to stage a number of activities that are currently not permitted. The arts and culture sector has demonstrated that such measures can be embraced to allow a return to trading.
“Over the coming weeks, we will work in partnership with the Executive, taking into consideration the needs of the accommodation sector, to work through the introduction of measures that enable this process.
“The industry has traded well to date and our primary focus remains the health and well-being of our staff and customers. Winter trade, in a viable manner within a sustainable framework and without further lockdown, is our aim.”
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