The case is due to be heard three days after the indoor dining restriction is lifted

The government has been instructed to explain the difference in rules for indoor dining in restaurants versus indoor dining in hotels and B&Bs.

A High Court judge has directed the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly to answer the Restaurants Association of Ireland’s claims that this distinction is discriminatory and to account for the government’s actions on the matter.

The distinction kicked off on June 2nd when hotels and B&Bs could serve dinner to their staying guests indoors, while restaurants have remained unable to serve guests indoors until July 5th, when the restriction is lifted.

A representative of the Restaurants Association of Ireland Senator Michael McDowell asked the High Court on June 21st for a change to the law which underpins the distinction.

McDowell’s client were in agreement that restrictions were necessary to stop the spread of Covid, but the distinction in place between restaurants and hotels has been described by the Senior Counsel as “disproportionate and irrational” report Newstalk.

With the lifting of restrictions for indoor dining lifted in two weeks time, the judge directed Minister Donnelly to account for this distinction before July 2nd.

Elsewhere on District: George Nkencho’s inquest has been adjourned due to ongoing Garda investigation