Everything we know about the latest Christmas restrictions

Taoiseach Micheál Martin addressed the nation on Friday 17th December to bring us the latest guidelines.

Only weeks after new guidelines were brought in, starting today, 20th December, there’s even more ahead of Christmas. This comes due to fears about the now dominant Omicron variant of coronavirus.

It can be difficult to keep up with the news, so we’ve collated all the info right here for you:

Q. What sectors are affected by the 8pm closing? 

Pubs, restaurants, or any indoor cultural event is affected by the new closing time. Cinemas and theatres will shut from 8pm too. Restaurants and pubs can still run delivery and takeaway services after 8pm.

Q. Is there a capacity limit for indoor events? 

Yes, venues can hold up to 1,000 people, or 50% of their capacity, whichever figure is lower.

Q. How long are these restrictions in place? 

These restrictions remain in place from the 20th of December until the 30th of January.

Q. Are outdoor events affected? 

Outdoor events can hold up to 5,000 people, or 50% of their capacity, whichever figure is lower.

Q. Do these new rules apply to weddings? 

While weddings can continue past 8pm, they have a 100 person limit, and receptions must end by midnight.

Q. Is there any change to household visits? 

No, four households can still meet in a private home, including the person who lives in said home.

Q. What are the new guidelines on close contacts? 

According to Citizen’s Information, for fully vaccinated close contacts, you must restrict movement for five days if you have not been boosted, and get three negative antigen tests over the five days. If coronavirus symptoms set in, you must organise a PCR test.

If you’re a fully vaccinated household close contact, you must restrict movements for five days even if you have been boosted, or 10 days if you have not. Organise a PCR test if you are displaying symptoms, and self-isolate as soon as they come on.

If you’re not vaccinated, you must organise for a PCR test, and restrict movements for 14 days.

If you’re unsure about any of the advice, you can check out more at Citizen’s Information.

Header image via Unsplash 

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