Will Ireland move to Level 5 restrictions?

As the number of Covid cases skyrocketing day to day, the decision on the new restrictions in Ireland, will be known tomorrow.

Public health experts have recommended that Level 5 restrictions be implemented, but reports suggest that instead of Level 5, restrictions between Level 4 and Level 5 may be applied.

The final decision on the restrictions will be announced by the Cabinet tomorrow.

The Allies had discussed the issue of Level 5 restrictions in the country last day, but the decision has not been released yet.

At the same time, the CMO Dr. Tony Holohan was asked to to analyze the spread of the virus in each region of the country and HSE Chief Executive Paul Reid was instructed to evaluate the capacity and testing and tracking system of existing hospitals.

The three allied leaders, including the finance minister, health minister, public expenditure minister, CMO, deputy CMO and Professor Philip Nolan, met yesterday to discuss whether to impose Level 5 restrictions in the country as recommended by NPHET.

The meeting also discussed the possible economic, employment and social repercussions of the country moving towards tougher controls, as well as mental health and domestic violence.

The health team informed the ministers that children are safe in schools and that the rate of spread in schools is low and it is important for schools to remain open for the welfare and development of children.

Meanwhile, the CMO had a private meeting with Prime Minister Michael Martin before attending the meeting.

Earlier this week, NPHET recommended for the second time that Level 5 regulations be implemented in Ireland. Prime Minister Michael Martin said yesterday that the government would look into the recommendation.

He said the situation in the country is deteriorating day by day and the cabinet would meet tomorrow to explain to the people about the restrictions.

Level 5 restrictions will be in place in Ireland for six weeks if NPHET’s proposal is accepted.

However, there are indications that the government is dissatisfied with the move to Level 5 while the Level 3 restrictions remain in place in the country.

It has also been suggested that differences between the two can only be calculated by implementing Level 4 restrictions before moving on to Level 5.

Meanwhile, 1,276 new cases are confirmed in Ireland. This brings the total number of cases to 48,678 and eight deaths have also been newly reported. Currently, the two-week test positivity rate in the country is 231.16 per lakh.

Life during Level 5 restriction:

• Most social activities will be stopped or severely restricted as part of the restrictions.
• Visitors won’t be allowed in homes. In addition, all gatherings in other places will be prohibited.
• Organized indoor and outdoor gatherings such as cultural events are not allowed.
• Group sports or competitions will not be allowed.
• Religious services may be conducted online, but places of worship may be open for personal prayer.
• Only 10 people will be allowed at the funeral.
• Only six guests will be allowed at the wedding.
• Bars, cafes, restaurants and pubs will be limited to takeaway or delivery services.
• Services such as hairdresser and barber are also not allowed.
• Retail sale of essential items will be allowed.