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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Edel Hughes

Coronavirus Ireland: Lockdown to be extended for 'vast majority', reports say

The existing Covid-19 lockdown is set to be extended for another two weeks for the "vast majority" of people, according to reports.

The current restrictions expire on May 5, however, it's understood they will be only eased for a handful of workers, including those in construction and horticulture.

It's understood that the Government wish to see key targets to limit the spread of the virus achieved before lifting or adjusting restrictions.

The Government are due to make an announcement on Friday regarding the next phase as Ireland continues to battle Covid-19, Independent.ie reports.

They are also likely to outline a framework for lifting social distancing restrictions in the coming months.

It is believed Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will announce the lifting of restrictions in three phases, with the first seeing few changes to existing rules but the second allowing more people to return to work.

During the second phase, people will be allowed to return to their workplace if social distancing two-metre rules can be observed.

This may allow fast-food chains to re-open but only for takeaway meals.

A third phase is expected by early June which would allow those who have limited interactions with colleagues to return to work.

However, it's understood those who can work remotely may be asked to do so until September.

It's also understood over-70s who are currently cocooning will be advised that they can go outside for essential exercise once a day as long as social distancing is observed.

The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) are meeting today and it's believed they will discuss whether the 2km travel ban should remain in place.

A further meeting will be held on Friday.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Health Minister Simon Harris are due to address the cabinet today on the Covid-19 crisis.

A further 18 deaths were confirmed yesterday and the total number of confirmed cases rose to 19,468 in the Republic of Ireland.

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