Lockdown changes Ireland: The next four rule changes in biggest day of reopening yet

Ireland is finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel after a gruelling Covid-19 journey.

The country is slowly starting to reopen after spending the entirety of 2021 under strict lockdown.

The government has committed to a slow, step-by-step easing of the current restrictions.

And that is due to continue over the coming weeks, with some changes expected as soon as next Monday.

However further progress will be dependent on the level of coronavirus infections and hospitalisations in the country at the time, with the exact dates and restrictions that will be eased yet to be determined.

There have also been a number of hints that the hospitality sector will reopen within May or June, as long as circumstances with the spread of Covid-19 do not change.

Temple Bar during the Covid 19 Coronavirus pandemic in Dublin’s City Centre (LIVE Ireland lockdown updates: Latest cases announcement as NPHET meet ahead of April 5 decision)

Minister Simon Harris said the government is looking at the potential of easing these measures as we approach the summer months - which could see a return of outdoor dining.

Mr Harris said yesterday: “I think there might be the potential to do a bit more in May - things like outdoor dining and the likes”.

“I’m not in a position to give a definitive view, but I think we need to start answering those questions next week.”

Here is a breakdown of what changes we can expect in the coming weeks:

Monday, 26 April (subject to prevailing public health situation)

Outdoor sport Outdoor sports facilities can reopen (for example: pitches, golf courses and tennis courts, other facilities as appropriate).

Outdoor attractions Outdoor visitor attractions can reopen (for example: zoos, open pet farms, heritage sites). Amusement parks are not permitted to open.

Underage sport Underage non-contact outdoor training in pods of 15 or fewer can resume.

Funerals Maximum attendance at funerals will increase to 25.

Under consideration from 4 May (subject to prevailing public health situation)

• Full reopening of construction activity
• Phased return of non-essential retail commencing with click and collect and outdoor retail, for example: garden centres/nurseries
• Recommencement of personal services on a staggered basis
• Reopening of museums, galleries and libraries
• Recommencement of religious services on a staggered basis