Government announces that most of the public health measures currently in place can be removed

Following public health advice, the government today agreed that most of the public health measures currently in place can be removed.

The efforts of the Irish people over recent weeks to reduce social contacts, and take care when they did meet others, combined with the high uptake of the vaccination and booster programme, has made a considerable difference to the public health situation.

From 6am on Saturday 22th January, the following restrictions will be removed:

  • guidance in relation to household visiting
  • early closing time for hospitality and events
  • capacity restrictions for outdoor events, including sporting fixtures
  • capacity restrictions for indoor events, including weddings
  • sectoral protective measures
  • restrictions on nightclubs
  • requirements to have a valid Digital COVID Certificate to enter various premises

From Monday 24th January, a return to physical attendance in workplaces can commence on a phased basis appropriate to each sector.

A number of public health measures will remain in place until 28 February 2022:

  • requirements for mask wearing in all settings where currently regulated for
  • protective measures in schools and early learning and care facilities

For more information, see here.