Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said that the current set of Covid-19 restrictions will remain in place until May 18th, apart from certain exceptions.
These exceptions are as follows, and apply from Tuesday next (May 5th):
- The 2km limit for exercise will be extended to 5km.
- Those who are cocooning should continue to do so but will be able to travel within 5km of their homes, but must avoid all contact with other people.
Mr Varadkar also explained some of the detail of the long term plan to ease restrictions.
That plan will involve five stages. Each of those stages would be two to three weeks apart. However it would all depend on keeping the virus under control.
While he would not give dates in relation to those stages, he did say that as of May 18th, outdoor and construction workers can go back to work.
From that date DIY and hardware stores, garden centres and repair shops will also be able to reopen.
He also spoke of it being possible for many regular health services to resume operation and for ‘small groups of friends and family’ to meet outdoors. He also said limited sports and exercise activities may also resume, but these will have limits applied to them.
Schools and colleges won’t reopen until September/October.
Mr Varadkar also said that the cabinet will meet again tomorrow to discuss further actions that can be rolled out to help businesses to restart, and rehire staff.
