The Taoiseach and members of Cabinet are this afternoon announcing a raft of new measures in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Minister have been meeting this morning to sign off on the new measures recommended by the National Public Health Emergency Team.

They are expected to include the closure of all ‘non-essential’ businesses and tougher restrictions on visiting parks, beaches and mountain trails.

Meanwhile, a multi-billion Euro social welfare package to assist workers who have lost their jobs as a result of the virus is also expected.

Officials are also expected to provide an update on the current level of coronavirus testing around the country.

The announcement is due to begin at 4pm and you can watch it live above.