People flying into Ireland no longer need to fill out passenger locator forms or show a COVID certificate upon arrival. 

The end of travel restrictions comes mere days after the requirement to wear a face mask on public transport or in shops was ditched as well. Although, it remains recommended to wear one in healthcare settings - such as nursing homes. 

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said the decision had been taken in order to help Ukrainian refugees flying into the country. 

A Ukrainian father holds his child at a train station in the westernmost city of Lviv, near the Ukrainian-Polish border, to escape the ongoing Russian military conflict on March 1st 2022. Picture by: Abaca Press / Alamy Stock Photo

In the past week some 600 Ukrainians have arrived, most of whom are women and came to Ireland because they have family and friends they can stay with. 

However, not all have found the journey plain sailing; Ennis-based Mariya Nikishanova told Newstalk that she had seen ticket prices for her family soar before her eyes whilst arranging for them to fly with Ryanair from Warsaw to Dublin. 

“I would just like to ask businesses, I know you are in a tough situation after COVID, but just if you could keep the price normal?” Ms Nikishanova told Lunchtime Live. 

“I mean, 500 euro for three tickets for Ukrainians who are running from war, it’s too expensive, they will not be able to come here.”

In response a press officer told Newstalk:

“Ryanair offers great choice and low fares on its Warsaw – Dublin route… and as I am sure you will understand, the fares on the next available flights [Thursday & Friday] are higher given the demand, the ultimate reduced supply and proximity to the flight’s departure time.”

Main image:  A traveller in an airport using mobile app in phone to show COVID-19 test results for travel.