It’s back to business for some Carlow and Kilkenny accommodation providers

Hotels and B&Bs can welcome back guests for the first time in more than five months from today.

Guesthouses and self-catering accommodation can also reopen, as part of the government’s planned easing of restrictions.

The Irish Hotels Federation says today’s reopening will result in more than 30,000 staff returning to work over summer.

Restaurants and pubs have to wait until next Monday to resume outdoor services, and they can’t serve indoors until July 5th.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland hopes to begin legal action against the state on Friday.