Cabinet has decided to extend lockdown in Co Kildare - but measures will be lifted in Laois and Offaly.
The Government met yesterday evening to evaluate the restrictions in place in the three counties following advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team on Wednesday.
And politicians have opted to keep the strict measures in Kildare while loosening them in Laois and Offaly.
The extension will stay in place until at least midnight on Sunday, September 6.
All three counties had been placed in a form of lockdown for two weeks due to rising numbers of Covid-19 cases.
County Kildare Chamber Chief Executive Allan Shine revealed that he had spoken to Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, who had made clear that an extension of controls in Kildare for two more weeks had been recommended.
"I had a conversation with Stephen Donnelly this morning. The cases in Kildare are obviously very high and we're expecting the announcement this evening that there would be a further lockdown until midnight Sept. 6," Shine said.
Shine called on the government to increase funding for Kildare.
"Cashflow is the huge issue now. The businesses need hard cash now to remain open and hopefully survive into the winter months," he said.
Tánaiste Leo Varakdar announced a package of measures for businesses in the county.
He said in a statement: "I realise how disappointing today's news will be for the people of Kildare.
"It has been a devastating few months for business owners, their staff and families.
"I recognise that and we are redoubling our efforts to help businesses.
"By extending these restrictions now, we will avoid further, more damaging measures later on."
The following measures will be stepped up:
* Restart Grant top up Kildare businesses will receive a further 20% top-up to the Restart Plus Grant, equivalent to a 40% uplift overall, bringing the new minimum grant to €5,600 and the maximum grant to €35,000.
* Increased Enterprise Agency Assistance The local enterprise office in Kildare will step up assistance to impacted businesses. One to one specialist expertise and mentoring will be provided to impacted businesses, helping them reassess their financial plans. A virtual ‘Sustaining Business’ open day will be held early next week.
* Marketing Grants Marketing grants under the Technical Assistance for Micro Exporters (TAME) programme will be reinforced to help businesses to get their message out that they are open for business. Up to €2,500 is available. A publicity campaign will be run locally to ensure businesses are aware of all the funding options available to them
* Applications prioritized Applications from Kildare for all existing schemes will continue to be prioritised
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