Representatives of the hospitality sector said it would be devastating if the Government heeded the advice of NPHET and ordered the earlier closing time of pubs and restaurants.
They also said major financial supports would be needed for businesses if they were to survive. The closing time of pubs and restaurants from 5pm in the evening from next Monday is among recommendations made by health experts to the Government.
The advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team comes as the Omicron variant now accounts for more than a quarter of all new coronavirus infections in Ireland.
The Cabinet is expected to meet later today to consider the proposals. Restaurants Association of Ireland Chief Executive Adrian Cummins said there needs to