The Taoiseach says NPHET will not change it's advice on indoor dining "anytime soon".
Indoor dining in pubs and restaurants was due to return today, but was pushed back due to fears over the Delta variant.
Industry representatives, who met with the government today, are pushing for a return as soon as possible.
The group will reconvene on Thursday.
Michael Martin says the challenge is now to come up with a reopening plan.
A Cavan chef says its disappointing NPHET wasn't at the meeting with hospitality sector representatives.
Gearoid Lynch reopened the Olde Post Inn for overnight guests last month, with the hope there'd be a further easing of restrictions today.
He said he's hopeful for some clarity later in the month, but was surprised that one of the main decision makers wasn't involved in talks today.
