Ireland will not move ahead to phase four until August 10th, the Taoiseach has confirmed.
The news comes amid Government concerns over a worrying rise in new Covid-19 cases in the past week.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin made the announcement this evening after a Cabinet meeting, which discussed recommendations made by the National Public Health Emergency team.
After growing concern over the spread of the virus through house parties, the number of people allowed to visit an individual home has been reduced to 10, from no more than four different households.
The extension of phase three means that facilities such as pubs, nightclubs, casinos, theatres, cinemas and galleries will now be unable to reopen.
Pubs and restaurants that have already opened can continue to operate in line with public health advice.
Meanwhile, the wearing of face coverings will be made mandatory when shopping.
On Monday, the wearing of face coverings on public transport was made law, punishable by a €2,500 fine or up to six months imprisonment.
Retail staff will also be required to wear masks unless there is a partition between them and the customer or a distance of two meters.
In terms of holidays, the government is still advising against all non-essential travel.
A green list will be published on July 20 of countries with similar infection rates although people will still not be recommended to leave.
There will be increased staff at airports to monitor if passengers are quarantining upon arrival.
For more information, follow our dedicated coronavirus live blog.
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