Leo Varadkar has warned that the easing of Covid-19 restrictions is "provisional and reversible".
The Taoiseach was speaking as he announced Ireland would enter phase one of our 'roadmap' for reopening the country.
Speaking at a live press conference at Government Buildings this afternoon, he said: "To keep going forward, we need to keep following the guidelines.
"Everything is provisional and reversible, and our progress depends on us all continuing to do what we have been doing.
"As the restrictions ease and we come into contact with more people, the opportunity for the virus to spread increases.
"So, self-discipline and personal responsibility will become more important, not less.
The first easing of restrictions means gatherings of up to four people not from the same household will be permitted once per day from May 18 onwards.
However, this will only be allowed as long as they live within 5km of each other, stay outside and that two-metre social distancing rules are adhered to at all times.
Follow all the latest news in our dedicated coronavirus live blog.
Outdoor workers will be allowed return to work.
DIY stores and garden centres, as well as any other shops that operate mostly outdoors, can resume business.
Homeware stores will not be allowed to reopen as originally planned.
The roadmap also suggests that public spaces where social distancing can be maintained such as car parks, beaches and mountain walks, will be reopened.
Golf courses and tennis courts will reopen for members who live within 5km.
