DUBLIN: Ireland proceeds with its reopening plans, despite concerns about the rise of the Delta variant of COVID-19. Taoiseach Micheál Martin has announced further easing of COVID-19 restrictions, which will take effect on July 5.
Exemptions are as follows:
Indoor dining and drinking will be allowed, subject to public health guidelines.
Four households are allowed to gather inside a home.
Up to 50 people can attend a wedding celebration or reception
First communions, confirmations, and baptisms are allowed
Organized indoor events can be attended by a maximum of 50 people, while large venues can accommodate up to 100 people.
Outdoor events can have a maximum of 200 attendees, and large venues can have a maximum of 500 attendees.
Up to six people can participate in indoor fitness training in pods.
Remain cautious
The Taoiseach advised people to remain cautious and follow all public health guidelines in view of the Delta variant. “We’re going to keep it steady, as outlined. We won’t be advancing anything or accelerating anything,” he said.
“The last two weeks have been very good. And what the epidemiology is saying that, really since May, we’ve been on a downward spiral in terms of the prevalence of the virus. So, so far so good.
“UK leaders have said they were concerned about the Delta variant in their jurisdictions. So I think that gives us cause for caution. But we are pursuing the easing of restrictions in line with the plans that we’ve outlined,” Mr. Martin said.
Taoiseach appeals young people to get their shot
The online portal for COVID-19 vaccination for people in their 30s will open this Sunday. The Taoiseach urged to as many people as possible to get the vaccine.
“I think the most important thing that people can do now, as we go down to younger age cohorts, is to take the vaccine. It does not just protect yourself, but it protects your family,” he said.
3,50,000 doses to be administered this week
Mr. Martin said that 350,000 doses of vaccine will be administered in Ireland this week. Yesterday alone, 58,000 doses were administered, the most in a single day.
The Taoiseach said that Ireland has the highest rate of vaccination uptake in Europe. He said that over this weekend, two-thirds of people will receive their first dose and more than a third will be fully vaccinated. “I think it’s a phenomenal achievement,” Mr. Martin said. He also paid tribute to the healthcare staff involved in the vaccination proramme.
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