The Differences Between Level Four And Level Five Lockdown As New Coronavirus Restrictions Loom

Government leaders have met tonight to discuss the possibility of further Covid-19 restrictions as cases continue to rise.

Earlier this week, NPHET recommended that the entire country move to Level 5 lockdown restrictions for six weeks in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus.

As a result, leaders of the government’s main political parties met with health chiefs today to consider the recommendations.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin, Tanaiste Leo Varadkar, and Eamon Ryan met with the Ministers of Health, Finance and Public Expenditure to discuss the implications of entering a Level 5 lockdown.

Health Department Medical Director Tony Holohan as well as Deputy Medical Director Ronan Glynn and Professor Philip Nolan also met with TDs to explain the latest Covid trends.

A cabinet meeting to discuss the latest advice has yet to be announced, however, speaking on Saturday, Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said the government wants to listen to public health advice and not rush to make any decisions.

But he cautioned that “nothing can be ruled out” at this point.

However, as cases continue to skyrocket, more restrictions are likely on the way.

The government has several options. They can choose to keep the rest of the country in Level 3 restrictions with the possibility of applying other guidelines.

Or, alternatively, there could be a change to Level 4 or Level 5 restrictions, which are the most stringent measures the country can face.

But there are some key differences.

Social and family gatherings

Under level 4 and 5 you cannot receive visitors from outside your home. This includes in your garden.

Wedding

Up to 6 guests can attend a wedding ceremony and reception on both levels 4 and 5.

Meetings organized indoors and outdoors

In both levels 4 and 5, indoor meetings cannot be held. However, on level 4 outdoor gatherings of up to 15 people are allowed. Outdoor gatherings are not allowed on level 5.

Exercise and sporting events

Training

For level 4 outdoors, non-contact training can take place, but only in groups of up to 15.

Individual indoor training is only allowed at level 5.

Matches and events

There will be no matches or events on levels 4 and 5.

However, there is an exemption for level 4 for elite / inter-county / horse racing sports that can take place behind closed doors.

Funeral

At level 4, up to 25 mourners can attend. Only 10 mourners can attend below Level 5.

Bars, cafes and restaurants

Take away food or home delivery. Eating inside is not allowed on both levels.

However, on level 4 outdoor service is allowed for up to 15 people.

Damp pubs

Below level 4, only outdoor seating is allowed, limited to a maximum of 15 people. Wet bars should close below level 5.

Retail and services (for example: hairdressers, beauticians, barbers)

Under Level 4, essential retail stores and businesses that are primarily outdoors can only remain open. All other personal and retail services closed.

Only essential retail is allowed below level 5. All other closed retail and personal services.

Schools, kindergartens and higher and adult education

Schools, nurseries and universities will remain open with protection measures in place.

However, for Level 5, a decision will be made on the recommendations based on the situation and the evidence at the time.