Schools, colleges and childcare facilities across the county and across the country are to close from this evening, following a government directive aimed at limiting the spread of Covid-19.
In a public statement, the Taoiseach has said schools, colleges, and childcare facilities will close from 6 pm today and will remain so until March 29th. Where possible, teaching will be done on-line or remotely.
Cultural institutions will close.
Mr Varadkar also said that he has been advised that all indoor mass gatherings of more than 100 people and outdoor mass gatherings of more than 500 people should be canceled.
When it comes to the workplace, Mr Varadkar advised that where possible those who can work from home should. Otherwise, workers should reduce unnecessary face to face interaction in the workplace. Break times and working times should also be staggered and meetings should be carried out remotely or by phone.
Mr Varadkar has said that public transport will continue to operate.
Shops will remain open and plans are in place to ensure that supply chains will not be interrupted.
Restaurants, cafes and other businesses can stay open but owners should look at ways that they can implement the public health advice on social distancing which recommends that people keep at least one meter or three feet between each other.
He also said this is a particular phase that has been planned for some time and advised that if anyone has symptoms, to self-isolate immediately.
The Health Minister has said that these moves mean that Ireland is moving from the containment to the delay phase of coronavirus preparations.
As a general rule, outside of the work, people should seek to reduce social interactions as much as possible.
Mr Varadkar said that in the period ahead, the government will deploy all of the resources they can muster to tackle the threat of the virus head-on.
He said that with the public working together, the virus can be slowed and pushed back. He added that acting together we can save many lives, and while our economy will suffer, it will bounce back.
Sporting fixtures and training are also being curtailed. Following this morning’s Government announcement, the GAA, An Cumann Camógaíochta and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association have decided to suspend all activity at club, county, and educational levels until March 29 from midnight tonight. This is to include all games, training and team gatherings at all ages and all grades.
