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The Irish government is considering returning to a full national lockdown for six weeks, Sky News understands.
The lockdown, which would put the country at its highest coronavirus alert level, 5, has been recommended by health experts to halt the rise in COVID-19 cases.
Sky correspondent in Ireland Stephen Murphy called it a “surprise move”.
He said: “All day, the signs had been that a Level 4 or ‘Level Four Plus’ compromise response had been in the cards from a government that is privately quite reluctant to impose a draconian blockade.
“However, we now understand that the original proposal from the National Public Health Emergencies Team (NPHET) is the one being considered at this afternoon’s cabinet meeting.
“The news will be greeted with consternation by retailers and the hotel sector, which will again stall if the plan is approved.
“The restrictions would be similar to the initial closure in March, although schools are expected to remain open and the construction industry protected under the proposals.
“It is important to emphasize that a final decision has not yet been made; an anxious nation will not get the official details until Prime Minister Micheal Martin gives a public address around 9 pm.”
