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“It’s tough and mentally exhausting.”
The Taoiseach spoke for many tonight when he said that people are “totally fed up with Covid-19.”
Micheál Martin added: “I understand that sentiment. Very often I share it.”
Talking about mental health was a good start.
He then said he had “encouraging news”: the restrictions will be eased next week after a “massive national effort” during Level 5.
All details are listed, but some measurements are highlighted.
One of the most important decisions the Cabinet made was that households can mix with up to two other households between December 18 and January 6.
There were some suggestions that it would be three households, if not more.
It could be that fewer home visits are an attempt to compensate for a wider opening of the hospitality sector, such as the opening of restaurants on Friday, December 4.
Another outstanding measure is the update on the use of masks. The Taoiseach said that people should “wear their masks outdoors on busy streets, inside crowded indoor workplaces and in places of worship.”
This appears to be an attempt to reduce the risks of transmission as more people congregate in the run-up to Christmas.
“Today’s announcement is a risk. And the government knows it.”
A key message from the Taoiseach was personal responsibility, saying that the “power” to prevent a return to Level 5 “rests with each and every citizen of our country.”
That’s one that will be closely watched. There is Covid fatigue.
It was immediately visible on social media, and some posts were just “recommendations” from the government and the Gardaí was not going to check people’s homes on Christmas Day to see how many homes were present.
On the other hand, Professor Sam McConkey told RTÉ’s Six One News that he felt the easing of restrictions was going too far.
He said bluntly: “I am concerned that we will end up in a third wave.”
Today’s announcement is a risk. And the government knows it.
The Taoiseach said that this Christmas “would not be the kind of Christmas we are used to.”
However, he confidently said that “it will be a very special moment in which we can all enjoy a respite from the hardships of 2020.”
Here’s the hope.
Click here for details on the helplines that offer support during the Christmas period.
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