The Taoiseach has warned that the current lockdown could be extended by two or three weeks if people don’t stick to public health restrictions.
Leo Varadkar said the virus seems to be suppressed, but getting to the point of easing restrictions is “in our hands”.
There are reports of an increase in traffic and people out and about across the country.
Mr Varadkar said people should not even think of breaking the current restriction – even for a few hours.
With increasing temperatures and more sunshine, people are tempted to break the lockdown.
He said: “Anyone who’s thinking of breaking those restrictions, even if it’s just for a few hours or an afternoon or an evening, bear in mind the consequences could be having to extend the current lockdown by two or three weeks.
“That’s not worth it just for a few hours of breach.
“I’d really ask people to accept that message and certainly I’m trying to use the power of persuasion as much as the powers that the gardai have.”
He said he’s not trying to threaten anyone or “wave the big stick”.
But he added that common sense will keep people from breaking regulations.