There's a mixed reaction from the local hospitality sector to the new guidelines,
The Vintners Federation of Ireland is welcoming the change to allow live music to take place outdoors,
While Head of the Restaurants Association of Ireland Adrian Cummins says it will be impossible to police the outdoor settings to make sure people are not mingling between tables:
Former chef at Viewmount House in Longford Gary O' Hanlon says while the increase in numbers outdoors is welcome, extending opening hours beyond 11:30pm would have been more helpful: