A better plan is needed for pubs

A MAYO councillor has called into question the government decision not to reopen all pubs.

A better plan is needed, says Westport-based Councillor Brendan Mulroy, who made the point that food is not a vaccination for Covid-19.

In a social media post last night, Councillor Mulroy said: “The decision not to open pubs that do not serve food has left the publicans and their customers up in arms across the country, particularly in rural Ireland.

“Maybe the point is being lost on me but you can open if you serve food but have to stay closed if you don't (level playing field it is not). Food is not a vaccination for Covid-19.

“Mental health issues are a bigger killer than Covid-19 in this country and keeping our rural pubs closed is another form of isolation for the most vulnerable of our population.

“Publicans have catered for events from births to deaths over the years and do it in a professional way and now they rightly feel let down.

“We all understand and agree social distancing is the new norm but to basically say that by buying a €9 pizza you are going to be safe is not the answer.

“A better plan is needed.”