He urged people to be cautious as the country begins to reopen on 10 May.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Ronan Glynn has said that "just because something is an option, doesn't always mean it's safe" ahead of the upcoming reopening of Ireland's economy. In a statement today Dr Glynn said the virus "still poses a threat" and urged people, specifically in vulnerable groups, to be cautious while heading out over the coming weeks.

“We have achieved a huge amount as a country, but this virus still poses a threat and it is important to stay vigilant and not to drop your guard over the coming weeks," he said.

"This is especially true for those who have yet to be vaccinated or are particularly vulnerable.

“The important thing to do as society reopens is to continue to risk assess your choices and your environment. Just because something is an option, doesn’t always mean it’s safe."

He encouraged people to exercise caution as the country reopens, especially in "crowded places and enclosed spaces". "Crowded places and enclosed spaces still carry a risk. If you don’t feel comfortable or feel a place is too crowded, leave," he continued.

"Encourage your friends and loved ones to continue to follow the basic measures to protect themselves and their families.”

In an announcement at Government buildings on Thursday, Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed a gradual lifting of restrictions on a phased basis. Inter-county travel, hairdressers and barbers, click and collect from retail and outdoor adult sports training in pods of a maximum of 15 people will return from 10 May. From that date, up to 50 people will be allowed to attend religious services such as weddings and funerals, although indoor wedding receptions will be limited to six people, while outdoor ones will be limited to 15. Three households will also be allowed to meet up outdoors, including in private gardens, while a vaccinated household will be allowed to meet an unvaccinated household indoors. Three vaccinated households can also meet indoors. From 17 May, all retail will be allowed to reopen. From 2 June, hotel and guesthouses will be allowed to reopen, while from 7 June, all outdoor hospitality will be permitted to reopen with groups limited to a maximum of six people.