Relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions in Ireland will be withdrawn shortly after Christmas

DUBLIN: The easing of COVID-19 restrictions granted for Christmas in Ireland would be withdrawn by the end of this month. The government is considering tightening restrictions on December 28 and 29 ahead of the New Year celebrations in view of the high incidence of COVID-19 infection in the workplace.

All major opposition parties, including Sinn Féin, Labour and the Social Democrats, have backed the imposition of COVID restrictions. Therefore, it is felt that only a Cabinet decision is required in this regard.

The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) had recommended to the government that the COVID-19 exemptions be reduced by the end of the year in view of the increasing number of virus cases. This has already been confirmed by Taoiseach Michael Martin. The Taoiseach had earlier hinted that the period of relaxed COViD-19 restrictions be shortened.

Measures are being considered, including reducing home visits from three to two. A decision on this is expected at the cabinet meeting next Tuesday. It is also considering restricting home visits, trips to other counties and banquets. The government fears that if the hospitality sector is left fully open during the New Year, it could lead to a major catastrophe.

484 COVID cases and three deaths

A total of 484 COVID-19 cases and three deaths were reported in Ireland yesterday. About 200 people are in the hospital, including 31 who are in intensive care. However, the national infection rate of 94.2 per lakh is a slight relief.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan said the growing prevalence of disease in workplaces and elsewhere is a cause for concern. He said COVID-19 outbreaks in workplaces and gatherings for Christmas parties and funerals are also a problem.

After a meeting with the CMO, Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said that the number of virus positivity and referrals for tests had increased. The number of people with symptoms such as influenza is also on the rise.

People should take care of themselves – Taoiseach

The Taoiseach said it is extremely important that people mind themselves by continuing to wear masks and observing physical distancing. Michael Martin said neither a zero-COVID or herd immunity strategy will be implemented. The Taoiseach said the government was considering closing the hospitality sector after Christmas in view of the increasing number of cases. But retail and personal services will remain open. He added that non-essential retail outlets could also be opened.

Tanaiste’s comment

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar has said that if the COVID-19 situation is not brought under control, it will go back to tighter controls from January 6. With vaccines, better treatments and mass testing, the condition is expected to be under control in the coming months. Mr. Varadkar added that no businesses would be closed by 1 April, but there was no guarantee.

Support of Opposition Leaders

Sinn Féin’s health spokesperson David Cullinan said the COVID-19 indicators indicators are concerning and that public health advice should be listened to more. Meanwhile, Labour Leader Alan Kelly, said there was no need to wait any longer to announce restrictions. “The Taoiseach and Government need to clear this up as soon as possible. The public and businesses need certainty from Government about any potential additional restrictions on home visits and hospitality,” he said.

“The hospitality industry also need to know whether they will be able to remain open as intended for the New Year. Hotels, restaurants and pubs have taken bookings and many livelihoods depend on the busy Christmas period,” Mr Kelly added.

Social Democrats co-leader Róisín Shortall, said the NPHET advice should be implemented immediately to avoid returning to a full lockdown in January. “The latest figures are a cause for concern,” he said.