It’s unclear whether Ireland will face Level 5 restrictions or what some are calling Level 4 Plus restrictions.
The Cabinet is meeting in government buildings to finalise the tightened restrictions in order to curb the spread of Covid-19 in Ireland.
RTÉ has reported that the Cabinet is considering moving Ireland to Level 5 restrictions for a period of six weeks.
It’s unclear at this point whether or not the entire country will move to Level 5, as is being reported, or if the move will be a hybrid Level 4 plus.
In September, the government announced the Living With Covid Plan which outlines five different levels of restrictions which the country could face to combat the spread of Covid-19.
If Ireland does indeed go to Level 5, this is what the Living With Covid Plan says it would entail.
Although it should be noted that some reports are suggesting alterations to what’s laid out below, such as the continuation of sport at elite levels including inter-county GAA and horse racing.
Schools, creches and higher and adult education
Recommendations based on situation and evidence at time.
Outdoor playgrounds, play areas and parks
Open with protective measures in place.
Gatherings (Social and family, organised indoor and outdoor)
In your home or garden: Own household only – no visitors.
Other settings outside your home or garden: No social or family gatherings should take place in other settings.
Weddings: Up to six guests can attend a wedding ceremony and reception.
Organised gatherings: No organised indoor or outdoor gatherings should take place.
Exercise and sport
Individual training only. No exercise or dance classes.
No matches or events to take place.
Gyms/leisure centres/swimming pools closed.
Religious services
Services will be held online.
Places of worship remain open for private prayer.
Funerals: Up to 10 mourners can attend.
Cultural attractions
All museums, galleries and other cultural attractions closed.
Online services available.
Bars, cafes and restaurants (including hotel restaurants and bars)
Take away food or delivery only.
Wet pubs: Take away or delivery only.
Nightclubs, discos and casinos will remain closed.
Hotels and accommodation
Open only for those with essential non-social and non-tourist purposes.
Retail and services (for example: hairdressers, beauticians, barbers)
Essential retail only. All other retail and personal services closed.
Face coverings must be worn.
Work
Work from home unless it is for working in health, social care or other essential service and cannot be done from home.
Domestic travel restrictions
Stay at home.
Exercise within 5 kilometres of home.
Transport
Face coverings must be worn.
Walk or cycle where possible.
Public transport capacity will be restricted to 25%.
Avoid public transport – essential workers and essential purposes only.
Over 70 and medically vulnerable individuals
Those aged over 70 years and over and the medically vulnerable should exercise judgement regarding the extent to which they engage with outers and in activities outside home. Specific guidance will be issued.
Visiting long-term residential care facilities (nursing and care homes):Suspended, aside from critical and compassionate circumstances.
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