The Irish government is expected to adopt a cautious approach to re-opening plans and the further easing of Covid-19 restrictions.The date of October 22 had been set to end almost all restrictions.However, a recent surge in new Covid-19 infections and hospital admissions has led to a re-think.
The Irish National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) met yesterday evening and Irish cabinet ministers are considering its advice.It is understood NPHET has advised that the existing restrictions on hospitality should continue.Yesterday, 1,578 new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed in the Republic of Ireland and there were 484 people in hospital with the virus.The plan was originally that, from Friday, October 22, restrictions would end, apart from wearing masks in public transport and retail outlets.The need to show you were fully vaccinated to get into pubs and restaurants would no longer apply.However, physical distancing, mask wearing and the use of Covid-19 certificates could now continue until spring 2022.