Dublin is being moved to level three of coronavirus restrictions for three weeks.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has also confirmed indoor dining will not be allowed in restaurants or cafés - a more restrictive measure than is included in the main level three guidelines.

It comes amid a surge in coronavirus cases in the capital, with the new measures in place from midnight on Friday.

The new restrictions include:

• Limiting visitors to private homes to people from one other household only, with a maximum of six people
• No organised indoor gatherings
• Restaurants and cafés will close to indoor dining, but can remain open for takeaway, delivery, and outdoor dining for up to 15 people
• Wet pubs will remain closed, as previously announced
• Visits to nursing homes have been suspended, except for compassionate and critical reasons
• People are being told not to travel in or out of Dublin, unless they have to travel for work, education or essential purposes
• No social or family gatherings, except for weddings and funerals for no more than 25 people. However, the new limit for weddings and funerals will not come into effect until Monday - with 50 people allowed until then
• Sports games and matches won't be allowed take place, although professional and elite sports can continue
• Communions and confirmations planned this weekend will have to be postponed and other religious services will be moved online

Announcing the measures, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: "Here in our capital, despite people's best efforts in recent weeks, we are in a very dangerous place."

He said that without urgent and decisive action, Dublin could return to worst stage of the crisis

He stressed that he is aware of the hardship people are facing, particularly in the hospital, arts and culture sectors - adding that the Government will have to do more to support them.

Mr Martin said there will be an immediate top-up in support grants for Dublin businesses, as well as an initial €5 million package for those affected in the arts, tourism, culture and sports sectors in the capital.

Cabinet decision

While Cabinet expressed concern at this escalation of restrictions in Dublin, there was little opposition to implementing them.

One Minister said the public health advice was very clear that this escalation is necessary.

It is understood Minister Simon Harris raised the issue of mental health and how people will cope with this return to restrictions.

Every other county is being left on level two, but with a warning that cases are rising in many areas.

Universities in Dublin earlier announced they will be moving many classes entirely online for now, except for lab and practical work that can't be held virtually.