Up to half of all restaurants could close unless they are given an emergency bailout by the State, according to the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI). He said many restaurants will struggle to survive. Meanwhile, Adrian Cummins, chief executive of the RAI, said it is "inevitable" that about half of workers currently employed in the sector will lose their jobs unless the State provides support. "This report is damning evidence that our sector needs support measures put in place immediately by the Government," he said. While the Government is encouraging people to holiday at home this summer, he warned: "There will be no staycations if our restaurants and hospitality businesses close."

Source: Irish Independent June 22, 2020 01:30 UTC