More COVID-19 restrictions are being eased from today, with the Taoiseach saying it marks another "significant milestone" in Ireland emerging from the pandemic.
A phased return to offices and workplaces is now getting underway, with many workers likely to be returning to their workplace for the first time since last March over the coming days and weeks.
A range of indoor group activities are now allowed to take place, while restrictions around outdoor activities are also being eased significantly.
It's the final stage of the phased reopening ahead of the planned removal of almost all remaining restrictions on October 22nd.
Speaking about today’s reopening, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: "Today marks another significant, and welcome, milestone for Ireland as we continue to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is an important day for businesses welcoming staff back to the workplace, and for indoor sports, arts, and cultural classes.
“If we continue this progress, we can look forward to the further removal of public health restrictions, to be replaced by guidance and advice.
“Of course, we cannot let our guard down, and we all have a part to play in protecting our hospitals and most vulnerable.”
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Here’s the full list of restrictions being eased today:
- A ‘phased and staggered’ return to workplaces and offices begins. Measures such as physical distancing and mask-wearing in some circumstances will remain in place for now in most workplaces. Employers will not be allowed asked staff about their vaccination status.
- Organised indoor activities (such as dance classes, art classes, sports classes) can take place in groups of up to 100 people - as long as all those taking part are either fully vaccinated or recently recovered from COVID-19. When groups include unvaccinated people, the activities can take place in pods of up to six people - several pods are allowed, but only once protective measures are in place.
- Bowling alleys, snooker halls, play centres and amusement arcades can reopen.
- Restrictions on the number of people allowed at organised outdoor group activities have been removed completely. However, crowd limits at spectator events such as sports matches and concerts will remain in place until October 22nd.
