The Government has confirmed that Ireland is to move into Phase 1 of lifting restrictions due to COVID-19.
From Monday, May 18, some stores including hardware stores, farmer's markets and opticians will re-open for business but with social distancing measures in place.
Some public amenities are to re-open, including mountain walks and beaches.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has also said that they encourage the public to wear a face covering if they have to travel from their home.
The Government have said this evening that the Phase 1 lifting of restrictions "are provisional and reversible" and are dependent on the spread of COVID-19 over the next three weeks.
Although parts of the economy are due to get back to business, the public are still expected to remain indoors.
The exceptions are:
- To go to work if your workplace is open and you can't work from home
- Shops for items that you need
- Exercise up to 5km from home
- For medical reasons
- Meet family and friends outdoors in groups of no more than four
A further update on the number of coronavirus cases is expected later this evening.
