Pubs To Shut For Two Weeks Over Coronavirus

All pubs in the country are being asked to shut their doors for the next two weeks.

The Government says it's after reports of "reckless" behaviour by the public at licenced premises last night.

The Licenced Vintners' Association (LVA) and the Vintners' Federation of Ireland (VFI) are backing the Government's call after advice from public health doctors.

The Government is also strongly advising against anyone holding house parties.

File photo of a man drinking a pint of beer

Health Minister Simon Harris made the announcement following talks with the LVA and VFI.

"It became clear during the conversation that it was not possible for our pubs to comply with the public health advice.

And therefore in the interests of public health, all pubs and all bars in ireland will close effective this eveinng until the 29th of March - in line with the time period that we have in place for school closures".

Pubs in Temple bar had announced plans to close earlier - along with those in the Mercantile Group.

This includes The George, Café en Seine and Whelan's.