Rapid Covid-19 tests might help reopen nightclubs
Could this be the answer we've all been waiting for?
Last updated 18th Feb 2021
Rapid Covid-19 testing could be the key to getting people back on the dance floor in nightclubs.
The Prime Minister has suggested it could also be used to help reopen theatres.
Boris Johnson has said lateral flow tests could be used by "parts of the economy that couldn't open last year".
Stephen Boyd, owner of Thompsons Garage in Belfast, has welcomed his comments.
He said: "Given the contribution that nightclubs and the events industry as a whole generate for the economy, we're just glad to finally get some acknowledgement.
"It will be interesting to see a more detailed explanation as to how lateral flow testing would work, but at this stage in the game we welcome any workable solution."
The hospitality sector has been one of the hardest hit with many pubs and restaurants only being allowed to open for a short periods of time throughout the various lockdowns.
Mr Boyd had to adapt to the changing restrictions and started to offer food to customers so they could start to trade again.
He said he thinks the vaccine will play a big part in getting nightclubs and wet pubs open again.
He added: “The majority of people who go to nightclubs tend to be in their late teens to their thirties, this isn't a particularly vulnerable sector.
"We would like to think that once people over fifty get vaccinated there won't be a particularly big risk. We're just happy that something is happening."