A Dáil motion will be moved tomorrow (Wednesday 14th July) aimed at blocking the government’s divisive and discriminatory use of COVID status certification to deny individuals access to indoor hospitality.
The Rural Independent Group of TDs, private members motion calls on the government to immediately allow for the reopening of all indoor hospitality to everyone, whether vaccinated or not. If approved, all indoor hospitality could be reopened from Thursday next.
Speaking at a press conference in Leinster House today , the leader of the Rural Independent Group, Deputy Mattie Mc Grath stated:
“The government’s move to introduce a special Covid passport scheme would be the first attempt at segregation in Ireland for over a century. Such a scheme would divide families, friends and communities and would do absolutely nothing to reduce the risks of Covid.”
“Ireland’s common goal is to emerge from lockdown – healthy, safe and free. But we will not arrive at freedom through exclusion and segregation.”
“In no circumstances, can we let this Government create a two-tier country of division, discrimination and injustice.”
“Irish restaurants and pubs should be allowed to fully reopen now. Various reports value the sector’s total economic contribution at between €5 billion – 7.6 billion, representing between 1.5 – 2.3 per cent of GDP. This sector also employs over 260,000 people, with over 71 per cent of those working outside Dublin.”
“Our motion provides all TDs with the opportunity to support the government sledgehammer approach or to stand up for the civil liberties and freedoms of every Irish person. The choice TDs take will be illuminating,” concluded Deputy Mc Grath
For updated and factual Public Health information and advice on COVID-19 Coronavirus, please visit hse.ie/coronavirus or call 1800 700 700
For the latest information on the Covid-19 Vaccine Programme, please visit hse.ie/covid-19-vaccine
