Dodds welcomes Executive decision on weddings
Date published:
Economy Minister Diane Dodds today welcomed the Executive’s decision on wedding venues.
Hotels and other private venues will be enabled to provide marriage services from July 10. Individual venues will be responsible for ensuring that they have appropriate measures in place and are in line with public health advice.
Welcoming the decision, the Minister said: “This is another step forward for Northern Ireland as we continue the economic recovery. I have been keen to facilitate the use of hotels for wedding ceremonies and receptions as soon as possible.
“Hotels and private venues will need to assure themselves that they have taken the appropriate steps to put precautions in place for the safety of staff and customers. It is therefore likely that many will not be ready for July 10, however they are free to host weddings any time after that date once they have measures in place.”
The Minister continued: “If this is to work it is essential that we provide clear guidance about what is, and what is not, permitted.
“Wedding celebrations, irrespective of where they are held, are associated with social interaction, line-ups and hand shaking, as well as music and dancing.
“My officials will work with colleagues in the Executive Office and Department of Health to develop guidance, ensuring that any issues specific to hotels are also covered.”
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