The vast majority of pubs and restaurants have not yet been inspected for compliance with Covid regulations, more than three weeks since reopening.
New figures obtained by the Irish Independent show that just over 2,000 checks have been carried out so far.
With at least 15,000 restaurant, café, coffee shop, hotel and pub premises around the country, many would not be inspected before Christmas at current rates.
The figures reveal a low level of non-compliance with indoor hospitality regulations – but also poor chances of a rogue premises being detected by routine inspection.
It comes amid anecdotal evidence that some premises are already failing to strictly implement the rules,
particularly at busy times.