Micheál Martin accepts NPHET decision is 'hammer blow' to pub owners

Taoiseach Micheál Martin gave a press conference this evening where he confirmed the government's decision to delay all pubs opening until August 10. Picture: PA

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has accepted the decision to delay the lifting of restrictions until August 10 is a “hammerblow” to publicans and other business owners.

But he said the warnings from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) that the reproduction number has now gone above 1 and the body was very clear about increased cases and such warnings cannot be ignored.