TRAVEL CHAOS

Confusion over official holiday advice on virus

A PUB is helping people meet in a socially distant way by having a phone for every table.

Mcgowan’s Pub in Phibsboro, North Dublin, is a popular spot for young people – especially if you’re a single looking to mingle.

Each table, as well as the bar, are hooked up to the internal grid, keeping everyone connected despite the physical distance.

Bar manager Ciara Mcgowan said: “We spent a lot of money on getting an internal phone system in place.

“The idea was, I suppose, Mcgowan’s is known for singles mingling, socialising, people coming for the craic and a drink, and to make new friends.” of safe countries to fly to would be published on July 9.

But since then the advice from new ministers, including Health Minister Stephen Donnelly and Transport Minister Eamon Ryan, was more cautious.

They said the list coming on July 9 would not signal the skies were open again straightaway, and that any easing of quarantine rules would be based on “scientific” advice.

New Taoiseach, Micheal Martin, backed this up too.

It all leaves ordinary punters confused and any booked sun holiday plans they have are now in limbo.

Sinn Fein TD for Meath East, Darren O’rourke, has called on Mr Ryan to take control.

Mr O’rourke said: “We have recently heard a number of our public health experts express deep concern at the plan to reopen foreign travel to some countries.

“Their expertise should be at the forefront of the new Government when before making such a decision. We cannot afford to get this wrong.

“There has been a vacuum of information in this area since the Taoiseach mentioned the July 9 date for a green list of countries. This is leading to concern with people who are worried about the virus being brought back into the state from abroad, and also for those with pre-booked holidays who have been left none the wiser.

“We have previously called for temperature screening to be introduced in our ports and airports, while