Level ‘5 minus’ lockdown is set to run until at least January 12th.
It comes as Government ministers were told to expect Covid case numbers to hit a staggering 900 this evening.
The new restrictions are being brought in on a gradual basis before a review by Cabinet the day before the Dáil is due to return on Wednesday, January 13th.
Weddings are going to be hammered with numbers cut to a dismal six from January 2nd.
There will be a major push to limit numbers attending the traditional post-Christmas sales as Ministers have decided that retail will be allowed remain open.
All household visits are banned from New Year’s Day.
This morning’s Cabinet meeting was described by one Minister as “dour and depressing” to the Irish Mirror.
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