An Taoiseach Micheál Martin has told the nation that the current Level 5 restrictions, due to expire on January 31, will now be extended to March 5.
Speaking from Government Buildings this afternoon, Micheál Martin said that "the Government has decided to extend all of the current Level 5 restrictions until the 5th of March, with a view to crushing the numbers of those contracting the disease, and in turn, the numbers needing hospitalisation and intensive care.”
He added that "the most important thing we can do to drive down infections, is to stay home and follow the basics around social distance and hand hygiene.”
Everything you need to know about the updated restrictions can be found below...
Travel
A mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine period has been introduced with people arriving to Ireland requiring a PCR test before they enter. They will also be asked to restrict their movements for 14 days when they get here. People arriving from Brazil or South Africa will also be required to quarantine.
Citywest in Dublin will act as a quarantine hotel, with other hotels currently being sought out for this purpose.
Schools
Schools will reopen on a phased basis in February and March
Hospitality
Pub and restaurants will continue to offer takeaway and delivery services only until March 5.
Exercise limit
The 5km exercise limit remains in place, with Gardaí expected to fine anyone going to the airport for non-essential foreign travel.
More to follow...
