People will be able to travel anywhere within their own county from April 12th, under plans being considered by Cabinet.
Ministers are expected to take a cautious approach after health officials last night offered a stark warning about the risks of a fourth wave.
It now looks as though no restrictions will be eased on April 5th.
Ministers have said they want to ensure nothing endangers the full re-opening of schools on April 12th.
As a result, any other easing will take place on a phased basis through April.
Under the plans being discussed at Cabinet:
- People will be able to travel anywhere within their counties on April 12th
- Residential construction will return on April 12th
- Outdoor meetups between two households on April 12th
- Indoor meetings between two fully vaccinated people from April 12th
- Intercounty GAA training will return on April 19th
- Golf, tennis and underage sports training will return on April 26th
Speaking on his way into Cabinet this afternoon, the Public Expenditure Minister Michael McGrath said CAbinet understands the need to give people some relief.
“I think it is about striking the right balance because we have made huge progress as a country and there are brighter days ahead,” he said.
“I think victory over this virus is now within grasp. It is within our reach because of the collective efforts of the Irish people.
“We need to do what we need to do to prevent a fourth wave but at the same time, we recognise there is an onus on Government to give something tangible to people who have made such sacrifices.”
‘Victory is within our grasp’ says Minister Michael McGrath on his way into cabinet. Says people will get some detail on May, June & July today as well as the next month pic.twitter.com/lWnIt9QZtq
— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) March 30, 2021
The Taoiseach Micheál Martin will address the nation this evening after the Cabinet meeting.
He is expected to use the speech to offer an outline of what restrictions could be eased in May, June and July.
