Irish pubs take a big hit as coronavirus dampens St. Patrick’s Day

River Court on Main in New City is expected to take a huge financial loss today.

News 12 Staff

Mar 17, 2020, 4:48 PM

Updated 1,511 days ago

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Many Irish pubs and bars are taking a big hit this St. Patrick’s Day because of the coronavirus outbreak.
River Court on Main co-owner Bridget Lyons says today would have been the New City pub's busiest day of the year.
“Never did we think St. Patrick’s Day would be like this,” she says. “There is a big loss for everybody.”
New state restrictions are limiting restaurants and bars to takeout and delivery. Meanwhile, the 1,200 pounds of corned beef, cabbage and potatoes she ordered specifically for St. Patrick’s Day sits untouched.
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Many small businesses in Rockland County are facing the possibility that they may be forced out of business. Although Rockland County has declared a state of emergency, small businesses are not eligible to apply for low-interest disaster recovery loans – something local lawmakers want to see change.
"We know access to capital can help small businesses,” says state Sen. David Carlucci. “It can be the difference between keeping their doors open or going bankrupt."


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