The Government has issued another plea to the public as Ireland prepares to fully reopen over the next couple of weeks.
Assistant secretary general at the Department of the Taoiseach Liz Canavan reiterated the importance of taking public health precautions as society returns, citing the use of face masks, hand sanitiser and social distancing.
She addressed a number of key issues on Friday - but struck a tone of hope.
“We're getting there thanks to you and our programme," Ms Canavan explained.
"We've a little way to go - but the (vaccine) rollout is gaining momentum and we are able to progress with reopening.
"If we can keep going as we are, there's more to come in early June. As everyone knows, the programme is a key enabler for reopening.
"We're in touching distance now and sticking with the basics is our best chance of having a summer with loosened restrictions."
Ms Canavan added that those who have already been vaccinated are not fully in the clear yet.
"Covid hasn't gone away. It's clever - you may have been vaccinated but many haven't. Please stay the course to give everyone the same chance."
Having already seen the return of appointment shopping, click-and-collect and personal services, on Monday we will see shops reopen fully as all restrictions surrounding retail are lifted.
However, the Government has urged that we all must remain careful in order to keep on top of the virus.
Ms Canavan continued: "Many of us have had much sought-after appointments for barbers/hairdressers.
"From Monday, we are excited to get back into the shops but we must do so cautiously. You will still need to wear masks and keep your distance.
"Use hand sanitizer and please respect the staff. They are working tirelessly. Clear guidance will be given to businesses to help support reopening.
"Our hard work is paying off. Because of this, we go into another weekend with more options of what we can do - be it a coffee in the park, a haircut, a visit down the country.
"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. Stick with what we know works - and those brighter days will be ours to enjoy soon."
