He said there is still a risk for people who have yet to receive their Covid-19 vaccine.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan is urging people not to underestimate the risk of Covid-19 as Ireland begins to reopen on 10 May. From 10 May, Irish people will finally be able to return to hairdressers, inter-county travel, and click and collect retail services. However, Dr Holohan is warning people to remain cautious over the coming month.

“As we move closer to the easing of restrictions on 10 May, we can look forward to opportunities to enjoy the better weather and to meeting with our family and close friends safely and with the public health measures in mind," he said in a statement on Tuesday.

“The virus is still circulating in the community and is still a risk, particularly to those who have yet to be vaccinated."

Dr Holohan also encouraged people to avoid overly crowded places to help slow the spread of the disease during the phased reopening process.

"Collectively we know how to interrupt the spread of this disease, so when you are making plans for coming week, don’t underestimate the need to keep your distance, meet outdoors where possible and wash your hands," he added,

"If it’s crowded, turn around and come back another time. Together these simple measures will minimise the risk of infection.”

Some of the other restrictions being lifted from 10 May include:

• A maximum of three households or six people from any number of households can meet up recreationally outdoors, including in private gardens.
• Organised outdoor gatherings with a maximum attendance of 15 people.
• Outdoor training for adults in pods of a maximum of 15 people can resume.
• Click and collect, in-store by appointment only, and outdoor retail can recommence from 10 May.
• Personal services by appointment reopen.
• Reopening of galleries, museums, other cultural attractions.
• Libraries to reopen for lending services.
• Recommencement of in-person religious services with funerals and weddings allowed a maximum of 50 people.

It was also revealed that nursing home residents will be able to see more visitors and go on organised outings as restrictions are eased.