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The Jervis shopping center in Dublin has closed its Santa Grotto after intervention by the Department of Enterprise, which expressed concern that Grotto would cause “additional congestion”.
One year, the Santa Grotto in the mall is a popular attraction with families.
While online reservations had been implemented this year and the Grotto had been open on Wednesday and Thursday of this week, the Department of Businesses contacted the mall yesterday and expressed concerns about increased congestion and risk.
“While we were confident that we had met and exceeded all current government and Bord Fáilte guidelines, the Department of Enterprise contacted us on 03/12/20 and requested that we close the Grotto,” said a spokesperson for the center.
“They were concerned that the Grotto would lead to an additional congregation and therefore increased risk. They also stated that now the caves are only allowed outdoors. “
The mall said that although they had introduced an online reservation system, they were told the department would keep the matter under review.
“We emphasized that we had introduced an online reservation system this year to avoid meetings. The Department of Enterprise said it would keep the matter under review.
“We will reimburse everyone who booked tickets to date and keep our customers informed of any changes if they occur.”
They said the Grotto has now been canceled for all dates.
“Unfortunately, we had to inform our customers that the Jervis Mall Christmas Grotto has been canceled for all dates,” added the spokesperson.
In a statement to Independent.ie, the Department of Business said there are government guidelines for retail environments to avoid “large indoor gatherings” while ensuring “that as many stores as possible can be opened” to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
“While it is unfortunate that some companies have moved forward with plans for indoor experiences ahead of the government’s reopening announcement this week, as long as such experiences can be enjoyed outdoors, we can ensure the safe reopening of retail for all in these exceptional times, “the statement added.
Sinn Féin North West Inner City Councilor Janice Boylan said she has been contacted by voters wondering why the Grotto had been closed.
“I am firmly in the position that we have to do our best to stay safe, but at the same time, we must make it as safe as possible for children to have some kind of normalcy,” he said.
“That is the position I take with my children, my three year old son has gone to that grotto every Christmas and I would have taken my 15 year old son to that grotto when he was younger.”
“If there is no safe way to do it, if there is a lot of waiting time and queues, then no,” added Cllr Boylan.
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