The Government will meet today to discuss plans to lift remaining Covid restrictions on Friday.
Nphet (the National Public Health Emergency Team) met on Monday to discuss the situation and then briefed the Government on their proposals.
It is understood that not all restrictions are to be lifted.
It is expected the Government will go ahead with loosening some restrictions, while Covid passes are likely to remain for customers wishing to access indoor drinking and dining, and face coverings are also thought to be here to stay.
While there is said to be “no panic” among health officials regarding the recent uptick in Covid cases and hospitalisations as they are said to believe the vaccine rollout will protect the health service from becoming overwhelmed, the impact on waiting lists for non-Covid care and trolley numbers is being considered.
On Monday, 1,578 new cases of the virus were confirmed by the Department of Health, while there were 484 people in hospital, 73 of whom were in intensive care.
The Irish Times reports the Government is reportedly eager to stick as closely as possible to the timeline for the reopening of the country.
However, some Ministers are expected to advocate a more cautious approach at today’s Cabinet meeting, highlighting the need avoid reintroducing restrictions for areas of the economy which have reopened.
Compliance with the checking of Covid certs, social distancing and mask wearing in hospitality settings is also expected to be an area of focus, while guidance on antigen testing may also be offered.
An announcement by the Taoiseach is expected to take place around lunchtime, however, this will depend on the length of the preceding Cabinet meeting.
