Callers to Covid helpline still waiting over 90 minutes for help

With many opting to use the digital Covid certificate to access hospitality, the Department of Health helpline remained under pressure on Monday. File picture: Colin Keegan/ Collins Dublin

More than 3,000 pubs and restaurants opened to customers indoors for the first time in 2021 on Monday, but the helpline designed to help people get the certificates which will allow them access bars and restaurants continued to suffer long delays.

Under the new rules, indoor dining is open for the fully vaccinated and those who have had Covid-19 in the past six months. Those under 18 can also attend along with families or guardians who are vaccinated.