James Cox
A pub in Co Waterford has decided to stay closed for the All-Ireland Hurling Final on Sunday with the “parish's best interests at heart”.
Waterford and Limerick will meet in the Croke Park clash with a 3.30pm throw-in and fears have been expressed over potential gatherings of fans.
Crotty’s Inn in Lemybrien, Co Waterford tweeted: “Unfortunately due to huge demand and having our parish’s best interests at heart prior to Xmas, we’ve decided not to open this Sunday for the hurling final. We will be open on Monday, hopefully celebrating an All Ireland victory. Wouldn’t that be something ?!”
Unfortunately due to huge demand , and having our parish’s best interests at heart prior to Xmas, we’ve decided not to open this Sunday for the hurling final.
We will be open on Monday, hopefully celebrating an All Ireland victory.
Wouldnt that be something ?!????????
— Crottys Lemybrien (@crottysinn) December 11, 2020
The news comes after gardaí asked hurling fans to follow public health guidelines for Sunday's game.
Deputy Commissioner, Policing & Security, John Twomey said: “As a life-long GAA member and former inter-county hurler, I know how much being in an All-Ireland Final means to the people of Limerick and Waterford, particularly after this difficult year.
“We want this to be a great occasion for everyone, but we all must remember that Covid-19 doesn’t take a day-off even for an All-Ireland Final. Covid-19 is still among us. It is still spreading among our communities. People are seriously ill and dying from Covid-19.
“An Garda Síochána, along with the GAA, are committed to playing our part. We are asking GAA supporters to continue to play their part by following the public health guidelines and regulations.
“If you are somewhere to watch the match and there are too many people there — leave. Limit your contacts. Maintain social distancing. Wash your hands regularly. Wear a face mask where appropriate. Remember, according to Nphet, shouting and singing can easily spread Covid-19. People need to bear these things in mind when making decisions about where to support their team.
“We want everyone to enjoy the occasion safely so that they, their families and fellow supporters can have a happy and healthy Christmas and new year.
“The vast majority of licensed premises have been operating in compliance with public health regulations. It is critical this is maintained. Those who are not compliant should be aware that we will take action – up to and including enforcement - to bring them into compliance.”
