Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD has this evening announced the latest plan for the easing of Covid-19 restrictions.
From 1st September, public transport will return to 100% capacity.
From 6th September
From 6th September, organised indoor events and mass gatherings can take place with capacity limits of 60% of venue capacity where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months), or accompanied minors (under 18).
Where patrons have mixed immunity status, there will be no change to the current restrictions during September, the government announced.
Indoor events and mass gatherings includes conferences, trade fairs and exhibitions and large-scale business events involving external audiences, and bingo venues.
6th September will also see the return of live music, “having regard to appropriate protective factors”.
Cinemas and theatres will have capacity limits of 60% of venue capacity where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months), or accompanied minors (under 18).
Weddings – There will be no change to the current limits (100 guests) during September. Live music at weddings will be permitted.
Religious ceremonies – All religious ceremonies can proceed with 50% of venue capacity, regardless of immunity status of attendees.
Coach Tours- can recommence at 50% capacity with protective measures.
From 20 September
Organised indoor group activities: Organised indoor group activities (sports, arts, culture, dance classes) can take place with capacity limits of 100 people (with appropriate protective measures) where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months), or accompanied minors (under 18).
Where patrons have mixed immunity status, pods of up to 6 participants will be permitted (excluding adult leaders/teachers).
Multiple pods will be permissible subject to protective measures.
Number of pods will have regard to the size of venue and substantial social distance between individual pods.
Organised outdoor group activities: Restrictions on outdoor group activities for participants will be removed.
Note, where applicable, spectator attendance will remain in line with regulations for events.
Return to workplaces: Attendance at work for specific business requirements may commence on a phased and staggered attendance basis from 20 September.
From October 22nd onwards, final restrictions will be lifted including:
- requirements for physical distancing
- requirements for mask wearing outdoors and in indoor private settings
- limits on numbers at indoor and outdoor events and activities
- restrictions on religious or civil ceremonies
- limits on numbers that can meet in private homes/gardens
- certification of vaccination, immunity or testing as a prerequisite for access to, or engagement in, any activities or events (with exception of international travel)
- restrictions on high-risk activities (nightclubs for example)
Measures that will remain in place include:
- self-isolation when we have symptoms
- mask wearing in healthcare settings, indoor retail and on public transport
