The wearing of face coverings or masks in shops, supermarkets and shopping centres will be mandatory from Monday.
The decision, originally announced several weeks ago, will be implemented in the same way it was on public transport.
Making the announcement, Taoiseach Micheal Martin said: "As we have seen with face coverings on public transport and the many other requests that have been made for citizens over the course of the pandemic.
"When people are given a clear direction they follow it."
The news was confirmed by Mr Martin at a press briefing on Tuesday from Dublin Castle, where he announced Ireland will not move to phase four of the reopening the country on Monday, August 10.
As we're just days away from the rule being brought in, here is all you need to know about face masks in Ireland.
Why is the face coverings rule being brought in?
The Government announced the decision on Tuesday - the same day it was announced Ireland will not progress to phase four of reopening the country.
This followed a string of days with many new cases compared with the last two months.
Wearing face coverings or masks is seen as something which can contribute to fighting the spread of Covid-19 in the community.
Was the rule not already introduced?
Up until now, the wearing of face coverings in shops and supermarkets was advised but not compulsory.
It will now be mandatory from Monday onwards.
How do coverings work?
Face coverings or masks work by stopping droplets which fall when a person sneezes, coughs or even speaks.
Health chiefs say droplets are main contributors to the spread of the disease.
Is anyone exempt from wearing one?
Similarly with public transport, children under the age of 13 won't have to wear a mask.
As well as this, people who may have trouble breathing, are unconscious or incapacitated, are unable to remove it without help and have special needs and who may feel upset or very uncomfortable wearing the face covering.
The Government has asked the public not to criticise or judge people who are not able to wear a face covering.
Do retail staff have to wear one?
Staff in shops must also wear a face covering unless they're working behind a protective screen.
What are they made from and can I make them myself?
The Government says: "Cloth face coverings are made from materials such as cotton, silk, or linen.
"You can buy them or make them at home using items such as scarfs, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels."
What is the law and how will it be enforced?
The law is the same as it is with masks on public transport and it can be enforced under the Irish Health Act 1947 as amended in 2020.
Can I be fined for not wearing one?
Yes, and potentially jailed too.
Not wearing a face covering in supermarkets or on public transport carries a maximum fine of €2,500 or six months in jail.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee has said gardai will enforce the rule as a "last resort".
