Passports scrapped for bars and restaurants as clubs reopen

Passports scrapped for bars and restaurants as clubs reopen

Customers going to bars or restaurants here no longer have to show a vaccination passport under the latest relaxation of Covid rules.

The change comes as nightclubs in Northern Ireland are also allowed to reopen, one of several moves agreed at a meeting of the Executive last week.

Nightclubs had been closed on December 26 but will now lift the shutters, though proof of vaccination for entry to them and other large events will remain a requirement.

Ministers said the use of Covid certification in hospitality would continue to be “strongly encouraged”, but in guidance only and they will meet again on February 10 to review the remaining restrictions.

Stephen Boyd, who runs Thompsons nightclub in Belfast told the BBC: “I would like to think we could get back to normal and back to trading again, but again, who knows what’s around the corner?”

He added that he hoped the vaccine passport rule for clubs could soon be scrapped, saying: “I understand why these things have to be done, but if the risk isn’t there, then surely it’s time for them to go.”

First Minister Paul Givan has already called for vaccine passports to be scrapped and since Saturday they are no longer a requirement in the Republic, apart from for international travel.