Table service no longer a must for unlicensed hospitality
Another strong step forward for NI's hospitality industry
Last updated 3rd Jun 2021
The Economy Minister Diane Dodds confirmed the table service requirement will be removed for unlicensed hospitality businesses from Saturday 5th June.
The latest tweak to the covid-19 rules means that in cafés and coffee shops, customers will be able to pick their orders at the counter again.
Table service will remain a requirement for licensed premises, but there will be a new exemption for buffets or carveries.
Making the announcement, Economy Minister Diane Dodds said: “I am pleased that the Executive today agreed my proposal to remove the table service requirement for unlicensed restaurants, cafés and coffee shops. These changes will come into effect for the weekend.
"The hospitality industry and the trade bodies have worked incredibly hard to put in place safety measures and mitigations to keep customers safe. I am committed to doing all I can to help businesses in this beleaguered sector to recover."
"Today’s decision will enable those outlets that provide buffets and carveries to resume service, as well as fast food and multi-outlets where customers choose food at a counter before sitting down. This includes those in shared seating areas in shopping centres and motorway services."
“This is another welcome step in the right direction both for the industry and for the public as we emerge from the pandemic.”
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