The public is being advised to use face coverings as part of Phase 1 of the gradual easing of Covid-19 restrictions, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has announced today.
Face coverings will be an additional hygiene measure for people using busy public transport or when in enclosed indoor public areas such as retail outlets.
But they will not be mandatory, for a number of reasons.
Speaking at today’s Phase One announcement, the Taoiseach said that masks will not be a legal requirement as “The science around it indicates that it may be beneficial but it’s certainly no substitute for all of the other things, like washing your hands, social distancing and respiratory etiquette.
“It’s an additional hygiene measure and not a substitute for social distancing and other forms of hygiene.
He added: “There are some people who have allergies to face coverings and face masks and we have to bear that in mind.”
The government is releasing information and videos on how to make face coverings at home and when and how to use them, and how not to use them. A full guide is available on www.gov.ie – Guidance on safe use of face coverings