It will be strictly seated service only.

But apart from that, diners will be permitted to eat and drink for as long as they like when outdoor service resumes in Ireland’s bars and restaurants on June 7th.

Speaking at the Joint Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment this morning, the Tánaiste said customers will not be required to purchase a substantial meal in order to enjoy a drink.

Mr Varadkar also confirmed that there will be no time limit on pub and restaurant visits and six people from any number of households will be permitted to share a table.

“It’s going to be seated only. A metre or a metre and a half between tables, no more than six at a table and they can come from any number of households,” Mr Varadkar said.

“There will be no rule of 15. If you have the space, you have the space. There won’t be a requirement to buy a substantial meal, that will be gone. And we don’t anticipate that there will be a limit on the amount of time you can stay.”

The Tánaiste also said he expects indoor dining will be allowed by early July, with some mass events possible during the summer too.