The Scottish Government has moved to cancel some large-scale events and significantly limit attendance numbers at others as part of an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 variant Omicron. Effective from December 26, all indoor venues such as theatres and concert halls will have a capacity limit of 200 for events that are seated …
Chancellor announces £1bn support package for COVID-hit businesses
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced a new support package worth £1bn (€1.2bn/$1.3bn) to help businesses impacted by the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant. Companies across the hospitality and leisure sectors have been hit by a decline in footfall in recent weeks due to consumers’ concerns about the variant, while many have also reported widespread …
Wales moves sports events behind closed doors to combat Omicron spread
The Welsh Government has announced that all sporting events in the country will be moved behind closed doors from December 26 in an effort to slow the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant. The new rules will apply to all indoor, outdoor, professional and community sports events, meaning fans will not be able to attend …
Sector considering “legal options” over Welsh nightclub closures
The Welsh Government has announced that nightclubs will have to close after 26 December as part of a national effort to combat the spread of Omicron. Nightclubs must close from midnight on 27 December, while social distancing will return in offices and shops, and one-way systems will be reintroduced in supermarkets. Businesses will also be …
Capacity limits for Ireland’s indoor events, but outdoor venues unaffected by updates
The Irish Government has updated the rules surrounding live events and venues due to the new wave of the Omicron variant. Indoor live events are limited to a capacity of 50% of the venue’s total capacity. Attendees must also be fully seated at indoor events and must also wear a face mask, unless consuming food …