Kelly’s Hotel makes ‘difficult’ decision to remain closed due to Covid increase
Kelly’s Hotel in Rosslare has made the ‘difficult’ decision not to reopen on February 12 as originally planned.
‘We are heartbroken to have to make this decision again, but the safety and well-being of our guests, team and families is of paramount importance to us’, said the proprietor Bill Kelly.
‘Although we lost much of our 2020 season and we do not know what lies ahead yet for 2021, we remain positive for better times to come’.
In a message to customers, the owner and his daughter Laura, who manages the hotel, said it has become clear that as Covid-19 cases continue to rise, the business will not be able to operate safely and they believe restrictions will remain in place for a further time.
Kelly’s Hotel usually closes for a period in the winter, including Christmas, and reopens in February, but this year, due to the pandemic, it has delayed the reopening until Friday, March 19 when it hopes to welcome guests again.
The hotel is currently in the process of contacting all guests whose bookings are affected by the decision.
Kelly’s Resort Hotel which employs over 200 people, has weathered many storms since it opened its doors in 1895 but 2020 will certainly go down in history. according to Mr. Kelly.
‘‘We have survived the last 125 years and we will come through this too. However, it is imperative now that the Government steps in with a long-term financial plan and saves the tourism industry which is currently on its knees’, he said.
‘With significant Government restrictions set to remain in place for the first of half of 2021, the tourism and hospitality sector continues to face enormous financial challenges and uncertainty.
‘Quick action is now needed. Failure to support the Industry will have ramifications for the future of Irish tourism and the employment of thousands of people, which could take decades to recover.