More than four out of every ten pubs in Dublin are planning on reopening ‘essentially as restaurants’ on 29th June, according to new figures released by the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA). 

The figures were revealed in a survey conducted by the LVA between Monday 18th May and Tuesday 19th May, with 44% confirming their intention to reopen on 29th June. When applied to the 750 pubs located across the capital, that means approximately 330 are planning to reopen. The LVA say these pubs have restaurant certificates and accordingly are licensed restaurants.

In light of this data, the LVA has called on the Government to follow through on their commitment to engage with the sector about the future of pubs.  
 
The survey also revealed that food is available from more than seven out of every 10 Dublin pubs, with 72% confirming they serve food on their premises. The LVA are advocating that all pubs that serve food be allowed open on 29 June on the same basis as restaurants. 
 
Commenting on the survey, LVA Chief Executive, Donall O’Keeffe said, "These venues have restaurant certificates and are just as capable of following the public health guidelines as restaurants and cafes. Food is a major aspect of their business so why should they be treated differently to other venues serving food and alcohol?"

He added, "We expect there will be a strong demand for these venues, with many pubs reporting a significant public appetite for when they will be serving food again. Bord Bia research also shows more people eat out at pubs than they do at full service restaurants or cafes."

Source: www.businessworld.ie