All pubs in Ireland to close doors tonight until 29th March

All pubs and bars in Ireland will close tonight until 29th March, the Minister for Health, Simon Harris has announced.

He said the decision represented a "difficult day for staff and businesses but it was the right thing to do." 

He added that huge sacrifices were being made by many who work in the health sector and the move was a sign to show all how seriously we must take ther spread of #COVID19.

"Thank you to everyone working so hard in our health service and beyond this weekend and all the work they will do in the coming days and weeks. We need to support them and help them in terms of our own personal actions." 

The official move comes after a number of pubs across the county took matters into their own hands by announcing that they were closing in the interest of customers and staff in the face of the Covid-19 virus spread.

Simon Harris had slammed "insulting" videos showing packed pubs and stag and hen parties in Temple Bar.

Footage emerged on social media on Saturday evening of crowds packing pubs in the popular tourist spot, flying in the face of Government advice on social distancing.

Other videos showed revellers walking through the night spot dressed in hazmat suits seemingly making light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Harris took to social media to blast the scenes, saying they were an insult to the hard work of healthcare staff.

He said: "Not far from here, nurses & doctors are working to prepare for the impact of a global pandemic.

 “Everyone is working 24/7. This is an insult to their efforts. There is very clear public health advice. Follow it. 

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