Social distancing scrapped for the hospitality sector

The relaxations start on October 31st

Author: Chelsie KealeyPublished 7th Oct 2021
Last updated 7th Oct 2021

The Northern Ireland Executive has agreed to relax further covid-19 restrictions relating to the hospitality sector.

This afternoon (Thursday) following another lengthy discussion the First and Deputy First Ministers announced social distancing in bars and restaurants in NI will be removed at the end of the month.

It is understood that dancing will be permitted again with mitigations in Northern Ireland from October 31st.

Paul Givan had previously signposted this date as a “significant day” for the lifting of restrictions.

Today’s announcement brings the following easements:

From October 14th

There will be no limited number for people to meet in a private home (however no more than 30 people at a house party)

Audience members when seated indoors when watching a performance in doors will go in theatres removed

Audience members can stand indoors for events

From October 31st

The 1 meter social distancing rule will be removed

Nightclubs can reopen, with mitigations

Venues and event organisers require individuals to demonstrate one of the following:

Proof of having been fully vaccinated for more than two weeks;

Proof of a negative PCR test or rapid lateral flow test taken within 48 hours of entry to a venue (a lateral flow test taken at home will need to be reported into the public reporting system)

Evidence of a positive PCR test result for COVID-19 within the previous 180 days and following completion of the self-isolation period

The issue of vaccine passports and the removal of face coverings were also mulled over, but no decision to remove these restrictions have been made.

The Executive also considered its Autumn Winter Covid Contingency Planning and what options it has at its disposal in the event of rising cases numbers or unsustainable pressures on NI hospitals.