Ireland closure: restrictions will be re-imposed ‘earlier than originally planned’ on pubs and restaurants

Additional restrictions will be re-imposed “earlier than originally planned” after the recent spike in Covid-19 cases.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan confirmed that the government will meet today and tomorrow before deciding on the finer details.

However, the minister said that the hospitality sector, as well as the number of household gatherings, will suffer further restrictions.

Speaking on RTE’s Morning Ireland, Mr. Ryan said: “The Taoiseach said last week that due to increasing numbers we were looking at some of the dates, an earlier closure of hospitality, a reduction in the number of households that they could visit the house.

“It was only the last three days that we have really seen the recent spike, which would call us to change the timelines.

“We are watching with concern the increase in the numbers. There are likely to be more restrictions, yes, and earlier than originally planned.”

“I think that in a variety of different measures there are likely to be changes.”

It comes after 764 more people tested positive for coronavirus in Ireland on Sunday.

Speaking about Sunday’s numbers, Dr. Holohan suggested that anyone who’s been socializing in the past few days and weeks should consider canceling their Christmas plans.

The medical director said: “All indicators of the severity of the disease are moving in the wrong direction, faster than we had anticipated. We are particularly concerned about the possibility of intergenerational mixing during the holiday season. On December 11, the 7-day incidence rate for 19-44 year olds was 106 per 100,000 residents, and yesterday this rate had more than doubled to 217 per 100,000.

“If these younger people come into contact with loved ones over 65, we could see an increase in infections in this most vulnerable group. This would lead to a very serious pattern of illness, hospitalizations, ICU admissions and unnecessary deaths. .

“If you’ve been socializing in the last few weeks or this weekend, carefully consider your Christmas plans. Is it responsible to meet with your family over 65 later this week, if you have not kept your contacts low? Should you cancel your plans?

“We have the very real prospect of COVID-19 vaccines on the horizon. Make sure your loved ones stay alive to receive them, staying away from them if you have not restricted their movements to this point.

“As difficult as it may sound, staying away from the older family this Christmas will protect them, and it would be an exceptional sacrifice made for the common good.”