Ireland looks set to face six more weeks of lockdown as government leaders are set to discuss the next steps in our battle against coronavirus.
NPHET is meeting on Monday evening to make recommendations to politicians, with Taoiseach Micheál Martin and others set to discuss them further at a Cabinet meeting.
After that, an announcement from the Taoiseach is expected.
However, we've already got some inklings about what restrictions will be eased as the Government tries to keep the public happy after widespread adherence to strict lockdown rules.
5km travel limit
The Government are said to be keen to have this limit extended so as to not lose further goodwill with the public, who have mostly adhered to the restriction since it was introduced after Christmas.
Though we don't know exactly how far the limit will be extended to, or if it could even be lifted altogether, we know there will be some changes from April 5.
When it will change: April
Restaurants and cafes
Taoiseach Micheál Martin is also due to set out a longer-term plan tomorrow for further lockdown easing in May and June which will include the return of outdoor dining for the hospitality sector.
When it will change: May or June
Pubs and haircuts
However, haircuts and pints will have to wait.
Personal services and hospitality are firmly “off the table” for tomorrow’s Cabinet discussion on easing restrictions, a Government source said.
That means it'll be June at the earliest before we get any hope of returning to a beer garden to enjoy the grand stretch with a pint or two.
And if your lockdown mullet is getting the better of you, you may want to order some trimmers and take a DIY stab at your hair.
When they will change: June at the earliest
Construction
The construction industry has been mostly closed in recent months but there is expectation the Taoiseach will announce a 'phased' reintroduction of services when he addresses the nation tomorrow evening.
That means we should see the return of the industry in the next month or so.
When it will change: May
Schools
Early learning and care, and school-age childcare services reopened this morning and the Government are set to confirm that every student in 1st to 4th years post-primary education will return to school on April 12.
When they will change: April 12
Meeting others
The only reason you can visit someone indoors under current restrictions is if you are providing care to children, elderly or vulnerable people, or as part of a support bubble.
That isn't expected to change any time soon.
But it is believed that the Government will allow outdoor gatherings to take place but in a limited capacity.
When it will change: May
Sports, exercise and gyms
Officials have indicated that if there is to be a return to sport, it will begin with training and games for children.
Getting people back outdoors “needs to happen” according to one senior Cabinet source and this is what the Government will want to prioritise.
Furthermore, outdoor non-contact sports such as golf, badminton or tennis, could be permitted under new restrictions, though it will depend on the recommendations of NPHET.
Gyms are expected to remain closed for the next six weeks
When it will change: Phased reopening from May
