Fears surrounding the potentially deadly coronavirus continue to wreak havoc on business globally, bringing a rare halt to the annual hilarity that is St. Patrick’s Day in its emerald home.
As the world recoils from the worst viral scare in living memory many have begun avoiding social gatherings as health authorities globally advise ‘social distancing’ to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Last week the Irish government announced closure of schools and universities, and advised against indoor gatherings of 100 or more people. Confirmed cases stood at 129, with two deaths. It stopped short of closing bars, restaurants and cafes, as has already been done in some European cities, fearing the impact on small businesses and workers.
But social media over the weekend showing revellers singing and dancing in crowded Dublin pubs prompted a backlash from concerned citizens and authorities.
“Everyone is working 24/7,” voiced Ireland’s health minister Simon Harris. “This is an insult to their efforts.
“There is very clear public health advice. Follow it.”
Publicans reported finding “real difficulty” implementing guidelines on social distancing, suggesting pubs are by definition social places where contact with others is largely the goal.
In the wake of official case numbers rising to 169 yesterday, Irish authorities ordered all bars should close until at least the end of the month – two days before the national holiday.
The annual St. Patrick’s Day parade had already been cancelled.
Ireland’s hotels body, the Licensed Vintners Association, advises 7,000 pubs will close, impacting 50,000 jobs.
In Australia, Crown Resorts has introduced its own social distancing measures to help combat the spread of the disease.
It hopes to keep patrons apart by switching off every second gaming machine and electronic table and restricting people standing around tables. The function and banquet facilities will also limit guest numbers to 450. Cleaning schedules have also been increased, and hand sanitiser provided.
Crown has already seen a slump in revenues for FY20 amid reduced patronage by the key demographic of Chinese high rollers.