Phase one of the easing of Coronavirus restrictions will begin next week.
Cabinet has signed off on the move which will see construction sites, DIY and hardware stores open from Monday.
People will also be allowed to play golf or tennis and meet in groups of up to 4 people outdoors.
The government has also recommended people wear face coverings on public transport and in shops.
Leo Varadkar says from Monday people “will be able to meet in small groups of up to 4 people outside, while keeping at least 2 metres apart”.
“Some people involved mainly in outdoor work will be able to start working again, for example construction workers, gardeners, and people tending to allotments.
“More stores will reopen and you will be able to shop again in garden centres, hardware stores, and farmers’ markets, or get your eyes tested or your car, motorbike or bicycle fixed.”
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said this is the first step in getting the economy going again:
"I can confirm that it is safe to proceed with phase one of our plan to ease the Covid-19 restrictions from Monday.
"Today's announcement gives us reason to hope but it's not cause for celebration.
"We've a long way to go yet.
"There will be bumps on the road and we have to keep our guard up."
- The following changes will come into effect from Monday, where social distancing can be maintained:
- Construction workers, gardeners and other outdoor workers can return to work
- The following list of retailers can open: hardware stores, builders merchants and those providing essential supplies and tools for gardening, farming and agriculture; garden centres and farmers markets; Opticians/Optometrists/Outlets providing hearing test services, selling hearing aids and appliances; retailers involved in the sale, supply and repair of motor vehicles, motorcycles and bicycles and related facilities (e.g. tyre sales and repairs); office products and services; electrical, IT and phone sales, repair and maintenance services for home. This does not include homeware stores.
- Outdoor public amenities and tourism sites, such as carparks, beaches and mountain walks may reopen
- Outdoor public sports amenities, like playing pitches, tennis courts and golf courses may reopen
- Outdoor sports and fitness activities in groups of no more than four are permitted within 5km of your home and providing there is no physical contact
- School and college buildings may reopen for teachers and lecturers to facilitate remote learning
