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19th Oct 2020

What time is the Government’s big announcement today? Everything you need to know

James Fenton

Today sees yet another major Government announcement about Covid-19 restrictions but this time at least, we’ve had the whole weekend to get used to the idea.

A Cabinet Sub-Committee met on Saturday to discuss NPHET’s recommendation to move Ireland into risk level 5 of Covid-19 restrictions and yesterday, Simon Harris confirmed that more restrictions are on the way.

However, it looks like we’re going to get a blend of level 4 and 5, with schools staying open but most shops closing. There have also been reports of allowing ‘household bubbles’ to include close family members but the ‘5km from home’ limit might return. What time should you be sitting down for the Government’s big announcement today? Find out below…

What time is the Government’s announcement today?

The Government is expected to sign off on new proposals around mid-afternoon before making a formal announcement some time this evening.

Where can I watch?

Let’s face it, it will be hard to miss. Previous major Covid-19 announcements have all aired live on RTE One, Virgin Media One, RTE News Now, as well as a number of major radio stations.

What can we expect?

Unlike previous announcements, today’s one is unlikely to come as much of a shock. We’ve been well-prepped for a move into level 4 or 5 and the aim is for people to reduce discretionary social contact. A 5km rule may come into effect, which isn’t great but it’s better to act now than to have Christmas apart from loved ones.

As we await the Government’s announcement, be sure to follow all the rules such as wearing a face covering if you’re heading out and keep washing those hands. More HSE advice can be found here.

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