COVID-19 and business tourism in Ireland
While countries around the world start to reopen in the wake of COVID-19, there is still uncertainty for the international business tourism industry. But with an accelerated roadmap to recovery now in place in Ireland, there is hope on the horizon for business tourism events here. In the sections below, we'll provide you with everything you need to know about Ireland's safety measures and progress, as we continue to reopen for business and prepare for the return of MICE activity.
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Ireland and the Coronavirus: an update
We're now in
Phase 3 of our National Roadmap to Reopening Plan and well on our way to safely reopening society and business. This is good news for the tourism industry, as many businesses including hotels and restaurants have been allowed to reopen since 29 June.
While the acceleration has been welcomed, Ireland’s approach has been and will remain one of safety first, with public welfare the number one priority of the tourism industry and Government.
For official advice and news on Ireland and COVID-19, visit Gov.ie, the central government information portal. For advice on staying safe during the health crisis and to find out more about the services available in Ireland, please visit Ireland's Health Service Executive.
Latest figures as of July 2020
- There have now been 26,162 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland.
- There have been 1,763 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland.
Safety Charter
Fáilte Ireland, our National Tourism Development Authority, has launched a new COVID-19 Safety Charter designed to promote the new and robust safety measures undertaken by tourism businesses around Ireland and instil public confidence in the safety of these premises. The Charter highlights Ireland’s focus on public health and confirms to event planners and visitors that businesses have committed to adhering to the correct safety measures and hygiene protocols.
Ireland’s recovery plan
Ireland is now in Phase 3 of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business, which means it is now possible to travel anywhere in Ireland. It is still recommended that face coverings be worn in public places and that social distancing measures be practiced. Indoor gatherings of up to 50 people and outdoor gatherings of up to 200 people are permissible — when conducted in line with public health advice.
The following businesses may also reopen:
- Cafés and restaurants providing on premises food and beverages
- Pubs and hotel bars operating as restaurants
- Hotels, hostels, caravan parks and holiday parks
- Museums, galleries, theatres, concert halls and other cultural outlets
- Cinemas, music venues (excluding nightclubs and discos), leisure facilities, bingo halls, arcades, skating rinks, amusements parks
- Religious buildings and places of worship
Air access for international visitors
Currently, anyone arriving to Ireland from overseas must complete a COVID-19 Passenger Locator Form and undergo 14 days of self-isolation.
Ireland’s national airline, Aer Lingus, has outlined important new measures and travel tips which will be in place to ensure passengers health safety when travelling to Ireland from abroad. These include enhanced air cleaning system on all aircrafts, air filtration technology and mandatory face coverings.
Stay up-to-date with the latest travel guidelines from the HSE and access the latest travel guidelines from the Department of Foreign Affairs.
What does this mean for tourism and MICE activity in Ireland?
Meet in Ireland is in the process of developing specific reopening guidelines for the business tourism industry; in the meantime, the following updates are available on hotels and outdoor amenities:
Hotels
Hotels are now permitted to re-open. Read the latest guidelines on the COVID-19 out more here. Physical distancing guidelines have been set and hand sanitiser dispensers (touchless whenever possible), must be placed at all entry points to a property. The Irish Government has recommended wearing face coverings in situations where it is difficult to practice physical distancing.
Pubs
Pubs that are serving food can reopen, while venues may reopen on 10 August. However, this date is just an indication of what might happen if everything goes well with restricting the spread of COVID-19 in Ireland. Again, physical distancing guidelines have been set and hand sanitiser dispensers (touchless whenever possible), must be placed at all entry points to a property.
Outdoor amenities
Many outdoor public amenities and tourism sites, including heritage and cultural sites, are now open.
Financial Supports
During these times, Meet in Ireland is offering financial support to help you bring delegates to Ireland when it is safe to do so. Find out more about the supports available for corporate and incentive programmes or book a one-on-one chat with a Meet in Ireland team member by filling out our contact form.
Further links