The Government has called on all public houses and bars, including hotel bars, to close until at least March 29
It follows discussions with the Licenced Vintners Association (LVA) and the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI).
Minister of Health Simon Harris has urged people to avoid house parties and smaller gatherings.
The Government said: "For the same reason, the Government is also calling on all members of the public not to organise or participate in any parties in private houses or other venues which would put other peoples’ health at risk."
Health Minister Simon Harris called this "an insult" to the efforts of doctors and nurses to contain COVID-19.
The Government believes it is important that all pubs are closed in advance of St Patrick's Day.
Thank you to everyone working so hard in our health service and beyond this weekend and all the work they will do in the coming days and weeks. We need to support them and help them in terms of our own personal actions #coronavirus #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/R4MDuuipVK
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) March 15, 2020
The LVA and the VFI both supported this decision and urged all their members to close in line with the Government’s request.
