FIRST minister Arlene Foster has said hotels can only remain open on a "restricted basis" for current residents and key workers.
She said hotels will have to close their doors at 6pm tonight, to all but a few exceptions, as part of the new Executive restrictions to curb the rise of Covid-19 cases.
It came amid calls for clarity from the hotel sector about how it would be affected by the new coronavirus restrictions. Hotel owners had been left in limbo by the announcement on Wednesday that the hospitality sector would have to shut.
Many were unsure if they also would be forced to close as part of the four-week "circuit breaker".
Ahead of the confirmed restrictions for the hotel sector, Janice Gault from the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation said: "Clarity for the hotel sector is key as guests are booked in for overnight stays tomorrow.
"Staff need to be given notice and there appears to be absolutely no understanding of the mechanics of a business in the Executive's approach."
Speaking at a Stormont press conference, Mrs Foster said hotels could remain open for certain customers.
"It is the intention that they will be able to operate on a restricted basis for those already resident and providing services for those requiring them for work-related purposes including staff on the front line battling covid as well as vulnerable people, those in emergency situations and people unable to return to their main address," she said.
"The bars, however, in hotels should close."
She also said self-catering and rented holiday accommodation can remain open.
Mrs Foster also told the press conference said she wanted to provide further clarity on some of the new restrictions.
From 6pm tonight, pubs, restaurants and cafes will only be allowed to offer takeaway and delivery services for four weeks.
Hairdressers, barbers and beauty salons also have to shut.
The DUP leader also revealed a number of other "close contact services" will be impacted by the new regulations.
She said tattoo parlours. tanning shops, spas, dress-makers and sports massage businesses would also be among services that would have to stop.
However, she said dental treatment, opticians, chiropractors and podiatry services would all continue.
Taxis can still operate, gyms and swimming pools are available for individual use - with personal trainers but no classes and music lessons and tuition can be provided from home.
The updated guidance explaining the rules was last night due to be posted on the government's NI Direct website.
