IF YOU’RE GOING to the pub, respect the guidelines, respect the staff and respect each other – that way everyone can stay safe while having a good time.

That’s the message from the drinks industry, as more and more pubs around Ireland reopen their doors.

“Our customers play a big part in creating the atmosphere we all know and love in the pub, and we’ve been delighted to be able to welcome them back in recent weeks,” says Michael O’Donovan, owner of The Castle Inn in Cork.

After a challenging year, reopening has brought its own hurdles, but the positivity and understanding of customers coming through the door has made things easier, O’Donovan says:

“We’ve had to adapt our business greatly to respond to all the rules and safety measures required, from social distancing between tables, to enhanced cleaning measures, to limits on numbers. Our customers have been extremely respectful of these rules.”

To spread the word and remind customers to have a little extra patience, the trade body Drinks Ireland, which represents drinks manufacturers and suppliers, has launched the nationwide #BeSound campaign.

“Whether you’re returning to your favourite local, or visiting a pub on a staycation in the coming weeks, remember to respect the guidelines, respect the staff, and respect each other,” said Jonathan McDade, Senior Executive at Drinks Ireland.

As part of the campaign, pubgoers are being asked to:

Be sound and respect the guidelines: Pubs will be implementing the full range of safety measures, from limits on numbers to mask wearing and social distancing between tables. Anyone heading for indoor hospitality will need proof of full vaccination or recovery from Covid, plus a photo ID.

While there are a number of required measures, things may vary from venue to venue, so keep an eye on the signage and instructions from staff.

The #BeSound campaign logo Drinks Ireland Drinks Ireland

Be sound and respect the staff: Visitors are being asked to be patient and respectful with staff, and follow their guidance. 

Many of us are looking forward to seeing our favourite bartenders or hospitality staff again.  It’s been a tough year for them, but it’s great that many are back to work. They’re working hard to make sure everyone has a good time, and is kept safe.

Be sound and respect each other: A good atmosphere is crucial to the pub experience. Everyone has a part to play, and the #BeSound campaign is encouraging pubgoers to be especially considerate of others. While everyone is there for a good time, it’s important that we all respect those around us and make sure the experience is enjoyable for all.

McDade said: “It’s been a tough year for everyone, including those working in the hospitality sector and customers who have missed visiting the pub. We want to highlight that when we all work together, we can help keep each other safe, while ensuring we all have a great time.”

If you’re visiting a pub – whether it’s your local, or somewhere further afield – remember to #BeSound by respecting the guidelines, respecting the staff and respecting each other. You can find out more about the #BeSound campaign here, or by following @DrinksIreland on Twitter.