The Government has released its roadmap for the easing of the vast majority of remaining COVID-19 restrictions.

Between now and October 22nd, there’ll be a significant easing of restrictions - allowing the likes of live events, indoor activities and more to resume.

The relaxing of rules will see large crowds once again allowed at the likes of concerts, matches and more.

Restrictions will be eased on a phased basis over the coming weeks, and will be dependent on COVID-19 levels being kept under control.

Here’s what the roadmap looks like:

September 1st

• Public transport will return to 100% capacity

September 6th

• Capacity at indoor and outdoor events will increase. Indoor venues can operate at 60% of venue capacity for fully vaccinated people, while outdoor events can take place with 75% capacity (again for fully vaccinated people)
• There will be no change to current capacity if events are for ‘mixed immunity status’ i.e. a mix of vaccinated and unvaccinated people
• The same rules will apply for cinemas and theatres
• Indoor live music, entertainment and sport events will be limited to fully seated capacity for now
• Live music will be allowed at weddings
• Communions and Confirmations can take place again, while religious ceremonies can take place with 50% of venue capacity
• Coach tours can resume at 50% capacity

September 20th

• A “phased and staggered” return to workplaces can begin
• Organised indoor activities such as sports, arts or dance classes can take place, with a limit of 100 people for vaccinated crowds. There’ll be a limit of pods of up to six people when there are unvaccinated people in attendance.
• Children’s indoor activities can also resume

October 22nd (dependent on COVID-19 situation)

• Nightclubs can reopen
• All remaining limits on crowd sizes at indoor and outdoor events/activities will be lifted
• The 11:30pm closing time for hospitality will be eased
• Limits on religious and civil ceremonies will be lifted
• Nightclubs will be allowed reopen
• COVID certs will no longer be required for accessing the likes of indoor dining or activities, although will still be needed for international travel
• Requirements for mask-wearing “outdoors and in indoor private settings” will be eased
• People will be asked to keep wearing masks on the likes of public transport and in shops
• The two-metre social distancing rule will be removed

Main image: Malahide residents enjoying the sunny weather. Photograph: Sasko Lazarov / RollingNews.ie