Ireland looks set to be put under further restrictions by the end of 2020 as the COVID-19 situation deteriorates.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin has said this evening that NPHET will recommend new restrictions before the end of the year.
Among the restrictions expected will be limiting household visits to one other household, and further limits on hospitality.
A decision is expected from the Government when they meet next Tuesday.
Speaking to RTE News, the Taoiseach said the Government is going to take the recommendation "very, very seriously" and that the public will get "a lot of notice" before they are implemented.
The grim news comes as the Dail was told by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly that Ireland's R rate now stands between 1.1 and 1.3.
To stop the spread of the virus, it needs to remain below 1.
We'll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit dublinlive.ie/news.
Get all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @DublinLive - the official Dublin Live Twitter account - real news in real time.
We're also on Facebook/dublinliveonline - your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day from the capital.
