Ireland has re-entered the fifth level of strict restrictions

Last updated Dec 31, 2020

DUBLIN: Ireland has once again entered the fifth level of strict COVID-19 restrictions. The new level 5 restrictions were announced from midnight yesterday to January 31st. The cabinet decision was announced by Taoiseach Micheál Martin.

Schools will reopen on January 11 after the Christmas holidays. Teachers’ organizations, including the INTO, had written to the government demanding this. But childcare facilities and crèches will remain open.

Outdoor playgrounds and play areas will be opened with security measures. People can only exercise within five kilometers of their home. It is permissible to travel more than five kilometers for work, education or other necessities. People have to work from home unless it is an essential service. All household visits and social visits to the garden are prohibited, except for essential family reasons or those in your support bubble.

The outdoor setting will allow residents from another home to meet and exercise. All non-essential businesses, including gyms, will have to close by the end of the day. Essential retail outlets such as supermarkets, fuel forecourts and pharmacies can be opened. Pubs, restaurants and cafes have only takeaway and delivery services.

Up to 10 people can attend the funeral. Up to 25 guests can attend weddings until January 2^nd and from January 3, it will be reduced to six.

The moratorium on the eviction of tenants and others was re-enacted. Hotels, guesthouses and Bed and Breakfasts can remain open. But this essential service should be for guests only.

Museums, galleries and other cultural centres will be closed. Libraries will be available for online services. Sports including golf and tennis are prohibited. Professional or elite sports like Gaelic games and horse racing in Indore are allowed. No indoor or outdoor exercise group activities involving children are allowed.

Construction centres will be opened. Visits to long-term residential care facilities have been suspended. Public transport will operate at 25% capacity for people to go to work.