Taoiseach Micheal Martin announces phased easing of Covid restrictions in Republic of Ireland

The Government said its “cautious approach” will continue until a substantial level of vaccination has been achieved and society can be reopened more widely.

Two households will be able to meet outdoors for social and recreational purposes from April 12, the Taoiseach has confirmed.

Anyone who has been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 will be allowed to meet indoors with one other person who has been fully vaccinated.

Construction of housing and childcare facilities will also return on that date, a move that will involve 14,000 workers, described as “absolutely necessary” by Micheal Martin

From April 19, some additional high-level sport will return, including senior inter-county GAA training, to facilitate the return of the National League in May.

But the Taoiseach has ruled out any relaxation of the rules in time for Easter.

In a televised address to the nation, the Taoiseach said: “By being safe now, while significantly ramping up the vaccination programme, we will enjoy much greater freedom later in the summer.

“Easter is a time for reflection and it is a time of renewal.

“This year, we will not be able to mark or celebrate Easter in the manner we would like, but we can and we should take the time to reflect on the sacrifices that we’ve all made over the past year.”

Mr Martin added: “We are on the final stretch of this terrible journey.

“This summer, our businesses and our public services will safely reopen.

“We will finally be meeting and enjoying the company of friends and family once again.”

People are urged to stay local and to continue to choose outdoor options over indoor where possible.

– From today:

Two people who have been fully vaccinated can meet indoors.

– From April 12:

All remaining students will return to school.

Two households can meet up outdoors for social purposes not including private gardens.

The 5km travel limit will be relaxed to allow people travel within their own county or within 20km of their home if crossing county boundaries.

Construction of residential properties can resume as well as early learning and childcare childcare projects.

– From April 19:

High-level sport will return including senior inter-county GAA training to facilitate return of the National League in May.

Training for certain high performing athletes approved by Sport Ireland will be allowed to resume.

– From April 26(subject to the public health situation):

Golf courses and tennis courts can reopen.

Zoos, open pet farms and heritage sites can reopen, but not amusement parks.

Underage non-contact outdoor training in pods of 15 can recommence for all exercise activities that can be delivered outdoors including dance.

The number of mourners allowed to attend funerals will increase to 25 on compassionate grounds.

– From May 4 the following areas will be under consideration:

Full reopening of construction activity.

Phased return of non-essential retail commencing with click and collect and outdoor retail i.e. garden centres/nurseries.

The resumption of hairdressers, barbers, salons and other personal services on a staggered basis.

The reopening of museums, galleries and libraries

Recommencement of religious services on a staggered basis

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