Health Minister Simon Harris has said Ireland is not yet at a stage to begin the reduction of the public health measures put in place for the coronavirus.
He was speaking as part of an informal, high-level video conference call of European health ministers.
Mr Harris and his counterparts discussed the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on Wednesday.
They talked about the ongoing need for a coordinated and planned approach across Europe, underpinned by public health advice and guidance.
Speaking on the call, Minster Harris said: "At the appropriate time, Ireland will support a well-coordinated and planned exit approach across Europe.
"It is essential Europe works together to plan and learn from each other.
"While member states can learn from each other and share significant experience, it is essential people here continue to follow the public health advice."
He added: "The disease is not yet under control. We must see a situation where the disease has significantly decreased and stabilised for a sustained period of time.
"Some of the indicators we are monitoring include the number of new infections, hospitalisations, patients in intensive care and patterns of transmission.
"Ireland is not yet at a stage to begin the reduction of the public health measures, but planning for the future approach to our exit strategy is underway."
It comes as the European Commission has outlined a roadmap, to ensure a coordinated approach to ending such restrictions.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "Even though conditions in the member states still vary widely, all Europeans rightly ask themselves when and in what order the confinement measures can be lifted.
"Responsible planning on the ground, wisely balancing the interests of protection of public health with those of the functioning of our societies, needs a solid foundation.
"That's why the commission has drawn up a catalogue of guidelines, criteria and measures that provide a basis for thoughtful action.
"The strength of Europe lies in its social and economic balance. Together we learn from each other and help our European Union out of this crisis."
