Phase two of the easing of COVID-19 restrictions has come into force.

Many shops have re-opened, while people's travel limits have been significantly extended.

However the advice from Government remains that working from home where possible and avoiding unnecessary journeys should continue.

People can now travel within their own county, or up to 20km their your home, whichever is greater.

These travel limits will be lifted from the end of June.

Source: Government of Ireland

Groups of up to six people  can meet indoors or outdoors, once they keep at least two metres apart.

While groups of up to 15 people can meet for outdoor sporting activities.

Those who are over 70 or medically vulnerable can welcome a small number of visitors into their home, with physical distancing.

Shops can open no earlier than 10:30am and also should provide dedicated hours for those who are over 70 or in an at risk group.

It's a busy afternoon on Grafton Street.

📸 @rorywalshfilms pic.twitter.com/zY50UCbufV

— NewstalkFM (@NewstalkFM) June 8, 2020

All retail stores can re-open, but opening times are being staggered to relieve pressure on public transport.

While people are being encouraged to shop locally, shop safely and support businesses in their community.

Other changes include that up to 25 people can now attend funerals of loved ones.

Public libraries can re-open as can supervised playgrounds and outdoor camps for children, once there are no more than 15 people involved.

Marts are also re-opening and greyhound racing can resume without spectators.

People queueing outside a Dunnes Stores in Dublin city as the next phase of Ireland's COVID-19 lockdown exit begins. Picture by: Niall Carson/PA Wire/PA Images

Public transport is running on a normal Monday to Friday schedule, but social distancing measures mean that capacity will be very restricted.

People are encouraged to only use public transport for essential journeys - and wearing a face covering is recommended when doing so.

Basic hygiene and social distancing measures still apply, with people being encouraged to wash their hands regularly, keep two metres apart, observe coughing etiquette and avoid crowded places.

The next phase - phase three - is due to start on June 29th and the final phase of re-opening is set for July 20th.

More details on phase two can be found here 

Main image:People queueing outside an IKEA shop in Dublin as the next phase of COVID-19 restriction easing begins. Picture by: Niall Carson/PA Wire/PA Images