The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has reiterated that the ban on indoor gatherings of more than 100 people applies to pubs and clubs.
The Taoiseach tweeted the warning after social media posts over the weekend showed images of packed pubs, despite appeals for people to abide by social distancing guidelines.
Mr Varadkar has also said that he may seek enforcement powers from the Dáil and Seanad in this regard.
Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health has pointed out that the social distancing guidelines laid out on Thursday need to be adhered to:
“We are in an unprecedented global situation. Everyone in the country must play their part in protecting the most vulnerable and slowing down the spread of this disease.”
Dr Ronan Glynn
Meanwhile, the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) has highlighted the pressure that the emergency services phone lines have been under over the weekend.
The NPHET wants people to know that 112/999 should only be used for emergencies, and it is not an advice line.
Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health has this advice for anyone with flu-like symptoms:
“…self-isolate at home until Monday and visit hse.ie for advice. You can call your GP on Monday morning and they will decide if you need a test”.
For updated and factual Public Health information and advice on COVID-19 Coronavirus, please visit hse.ie/coronavirus or call 1800 700 700
For the latest information on the Covid-19 Vaccine Programme, please visit hse.ie/covid-19-vaccine
