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Ireland’s government has agreed to return the country to the highest level of coronavirus restrictions starting at midnight on Wednesday.
Cabinet ministers agreed to measures to contain COVID-19 during a meeting at government buildings in Dublin.
It means Ireland will move to the most severe level 5 coronavirus restrictions that had been recommended by health experts to halt the rise in COVID-19 cases.
The new restrictions, which are included in the government’s Living with Covid plan, will be in effect until December 1.
Although the Cabinet agreed to a review of the restrictions after four weeks, the Irish Times reports.
Reports say the measures will halt before a full national shutdown as schools will reportedly remain open and elite sports will be allowed to continue.
However, nonessential retailers and hair salons will close and pubs and restaurants will only be able to serve takeout.
Prime Minister Micheal Martin will address the nation tonight, and Sky’s Ireland correspondent Stephen Murphy previously described the measures as a “surprise move.”
According to RTE News, construction will continue and people will be able to go out to exercise 5 km from their homes.
Outdoor gatherings with another household are allowed for activities such as exercise and within the 5 km limit. Weddings will remain limited to 25 guests until the end of the year.
A reduction of off-license opening hours is also reportedly being considered.
