Taoiseach Micheál Martin has confirmed that the entire country will move to Level 5 restrictions for a period of six weeks, based on advice from the National Public Health Emergency team (NPHET).
The restrictions come into force Wednesday evening at midnight and are due to expire on December 1st.
The public will be asked to stay within 5km of their home. People must work from home where possible, however, schools and creches will remain open and elite level sport will be permitted.
Construction sites will remain open under the plan, manufacturing will continue.
Weddings will stay at 25 guests until the end of the year.
Non-essential retail will be closed again in light of the increasing number of Covid-19 cases, a move which representatives have said will be a “massive blow” to the sector. Pubs and restaurants will move to takeaway only.
Hairdressers, beauticians and barbers will close.
Small social bubbles that allow people to visit close family, provide care or check-in with lonely and vulnerable people will be permitted.
Retail allowed stay open include:
- Supermarkets, newsagents & petrol stations.
- Food markets & takeaways
- Pharmacies & medical stores
- Laundries & drycleaners.
- Banks & post offices
- Hardware
- Opticians, electrical & office stores (for emergencies only).— Kevin Doyle (@KevDoyle_Indo) October 19, 2020
Speaking from government buildings this evening the Taoiseach said:
"I understand the sense of disappointment, loneliness and despair this announcement will bring. Even as the winter comes in there is hope and there is light.
"If we pull together over the next six weeks we will be able to celebrate Christmas in a meaningful way," he said.
