A Waterloo Irish bar is rolling out new safety and security measures after criticism about how the venue operated. The former Parnells Sports Bar venue, which is reopening as McGreavy's, will implement ID checks, searches and introduce a dress code on weekends.
Closure and Reopening
At the beginning of the month, the venue announced it would close its doors for the final time on Sunday, August 9, teasing plans to return with "a great commitment to bring something new and fun to the road".
In a statement shared on Facebook, the bar said: "For seventeen years Parnells has been owned and operated by the same family and has seen great success and some big lows like the pandemic that has unfortunately seen hospitality rocked to its core and has yet to recover.
"It has served as a great bar for South Road for this whole time and we thank you all for making that possible. With that being said, we acknowledge that it is time for something fresh and different.
"South Road was once a great community for the hospitality sector and we look forward to helping bring it back to where it once was. Thank you all for your support over the past 17 years and the memories we have all made. The Parnells Team."
New Measures at McGreavy's
The venue is currently undergoing a transformation into an Irish bar, McGreavy's, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the venue. An update on Instagram reads: "Slowly but surely! We can’t wait to see you all when we open up. More information coming soon, for now we are working hard to make this as special as we can."
An opening date for McGreavy's is yet to be announced. The Parnells concept received criticism online in regards to its operation inside and out, which has warranted a new wave of rules to be implemented when McGreavy's opens.
McGreavy's said: "This was mainly the reason we felt it was time for a change. Working closely with a new door firm we are implementing rules that will hopefully see people feeling safer while with us and make sure everyone can have a good time.
"Challenge 25 will be in operation and if you do not have ID to prove your age then entry will not be allowed. Some searches will be conducted through each night to make sure everyone can feel safe and enjoy themselves.
"During Friday and Saturday there will be no track suites or sports wear allowed once doormen have started their shifts. These measures have been put in place to make sure we can all enjoy ourselves.
"Over the coming days we will have more updates for you on entertainment and opening hours. See you all soon, the McGreavy's team."
