The month of May is the likely time when Ireland will see the easing of restrictions reach full throttle - should case numbers continue to decrease and vaccinations increase.
Among the restrictions we know for a fact are easing, according to the most recent government announcement, is a phased return of non-essential retail, personal services, and the reopening of museums, galleries, and libraries.
However, a question mark remains over the hospitality and hairdressing industries.
Whether or not outdoor dining will reopen across pubs and restaurants at this point is unknown, as is whether in-store browsing will be allowed or not.
Here’s what we know for definite after the latest government announcement:
Construction
A full reopening of construction activity is expected from May 4.
Today, all residential construction restarted as well as early learning and childcare projects.
The return of these projects saw 20,000 construction staff return to work this morning, however, the sector remains frustrated that only certain projects can resume.
Most construction activity has been at a halt since January 8 and resulted in almost 60,000 people having to sign on for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP).
Non-essential retail
The government has confirmed that a phased return of non-essential retail will commence in the first week of May, with click and collect and outdoor retail, such as garden centres/nurseries opening first.
Over the weekend, Penneys updated its customers on their reopening hopes, while the government is likely to review non-essential retail plans over the coming weeks.
They revealed to customers that a brand new range will be available when they receive the go-ahead and said; “We are really looking forward to welcoming our customers back to our stores.”
It is still unconfirmed whether in-store browsing will be allowed in May, however, an announcement is likely over the coming weeks in line with lowering infection rates.
Hairdressers
Recent reports suggest that fully vaccinated people will have more freedom than those who have not received their dose when it comes to reopening society in the coming months.
While the government has hinted at a phased reopening of all personal services, including hairdressers in the first week of May, it’s likely this will apply to those who are protected against the virus at first.
Museums/ Galleries
Museums, galleries, and libraries will all reopen come May 4.
Social distancing measures will remain in place, while crowd control will also be practiced.
