A Mayo Oireachtas member has welcomed the news that the hospitality, entertainment and night-time sector will be able to open on October 22.

Senator Lisa Chambers said: “This industry has been severely impacted due to Covid in comparison with other sectors and the news that they can open up is very welcome.

“Young people have sacrificed so much due to the pandemic and have missed out of key life events, I am glad that they will finally be allowed enjoy a proper night out, something that I think we have all missed.

“Masks will need to be worn when not eating, drinking or dancing, and the Covid vaccination pass will stay in place, along with contact tracing but this is something the vast majority of people very much welcome and the sector is more than capable of managing,”