The Dáil has passed a motion to extend Emergency Health Measures such as mask-wearing and vaccine cert requirements until February 9, 2022.
But additional restrictions and lockdowns are not being considered to deal with rising Covid-19 case numbers.
82 TDs voted in favour and 44 against the extension of the Emergency Health Measures last night.
This means that people will need an EU Digital COVID Certificate (COVID-19 pass) (vaccine or recovery certificate) for indoor hospitality and events until after the New Year.
Enforcement powers and fixed penalty notices will continue to be in place under the measures.
Speaking yesterday evening, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said Covid-19 incidence is increasing rapidly in those aged 19-24 years and across all adult age groups up to 75 years.
“This high incidence is likely associated with mid-term socialising and greater levels of social activity across communities,” he said.
But Dr Holohan ruled out speculation over a circuit-breaker lockdown to control rising cases.
Professor Philip Nolan, Chair of the NPHET Irish Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group said: “The level of socialisation in the population is at its greatest level since the pandemic began. While we have high vaccine uptake in our country, it is not the only intervention needed to suppress waves of infection. Infection prevention action in your own daily life will help limit transmission in your own circles, as well as the wider community.”
