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As most people already know, level five of the government’s Living with Covid plan is a full-scale lockdown across the country.
It means that only essential retail stores can remain open, while more recently it allowed schools and construction to continue, while all other aspects of society were forced to close.
Ireland finished its most recent Level Five in a staggered fashion between December 1-4, when shops, food bars, restaurants, gyms and cinemas returned.
But as a result of the escalation of cases in recent weeks, the government will announce a series of new measures this afternoon.
Medical Director Dr. Tony Holohan and the National Public Health Emergency Team recommended last night that the country be placed at Level Five once again, something the Cabinet is expected to reject.
Therefore, there is some confusion about the restrictions that will apply, and the new rules will be called “Level Five Minus”.
A source told the Irish Mirror late Monday night that the new measures “will be essentially Level Five”, but that some changes will be implemented.
All shops, along with gyms and leisure centers, may remain open for the time being.
Meanwhile, sports that can be practiced while maintaining social distancing, such as golf and tennis, will also be allowed.
(Image: Collins Photo Agency)
Taoiseach Micheal Martin is expected to make a full announcement around lunchtime.
As for the new rules, here is everything we know so far:
- Pubs and restaurants limited to take out food and home delivery service from December 24
- Hairdressers, barbers, salons, cinemas and galleries will close from December 24
- The return of the inter-county travel ban is expected on December 26
- Great Britain travel ban extended until December 31
- Home visits are expected to be restricted as of December 26 and prohibited as of December 31.
- Non-essential retail will be allowed to remain open
- Golf courses, tennis courts, and other outdoor sports where social distancing can be maintained will be allowed to continue.
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