Ireland faces six more weeks of lockdown as government leaders are set to discuss the next steps in our battle against coronavirus, it has been reported.
NPHET is meeting this morning to make a recommendation to politicians, with Taoiseach Micheal Martin and others set to meet to discuss them later today.
An official announcement will be made tomorrow, as a number of minor changes are currently on the table.
However we will remain under a strict lockdown, with no significant loosening expected until later in May as leaders are most likely to ask us to "hold firm" for another six weeks.
Some key changes are expected, with government leaders to discuss the new measures over the coming days.
An extension to the 5km limit is very likely, while it is understood Ministers see the other two key priorities as a phased return for construction workers and the return of outdoor sports for children.
However unfortunately it looks like bars and restaurants will remain closed until at least the middle of June - or possibly longer.
It is already accepted that the return of personal services, which encompasses hair salons, and indoor hospitality are not going to be recommended by NPHET, and so will not be considered by Cabinet.
A senior Government source told Dublin Live when asked about haircuts and pints: “I’m afraid they’re off the table for now, until mid-summer really.”
He added: “They are not in the running at all for next Tuesday’s announcement.”
And it is also almost certain that the reopening of personal services - such as hairdressers- and hospitality are firmly “off the table” according to one senior Government source.
The considerations on the table next week are now limited to the following five, in this order of priority:
- Lift the 5kms travel limit
- Expand limited outdoor gathering
- Phased reintroduction of construction
- Sports and training for kids
- Adults’ outdoor non-contact sports like golf and tennis
A Cabinet Minister explained to Dublin Live how the priorities will play out.
He said that the “best-case scenario” is that all five will be announced as being eased from April 5th at tomorrow's latest ‘State of the Nation’ address from Taoiseach Micheál Martin.
However, if case numbers do not improve, then the priorities at the bottom of the list will have to be dropped.
He added: “take them in order, knocking them off from the bottom if the numbers aren’t right.”
The source said that this means: “Golf is out if that happens, and other outdoor adult sports.”
Another Government source said there is a “keen” interest in getting the restrictions on children’s activities outside, number four on the list, eased next Tuesday.
