Government chiefs are considering recommendations that it will be August before up to 5,000 spectators can attend big sporting events again.
It was hoped that the Government would give the green light today to crowds returning to big GAA, soccer and rugby matches during the month of July.
When the Government's sub-committee on Covid-19 met tonight to agree a series of measures as part of the easing of restrictions over the summer, it was recommended that 500 people can attend outdoor events from July 5.
It was also recommended that from August 2nd, 5,000 spectators - or 25% of the capacity of the venue, whichever is the lowest figure - can attend matches in big stadia such as Croke Park and the Aviva Stadium.
Taoiseach Michéal Martin will publicly announce the measures on Friday evening, once they are signed off at a full Cabinet meeting.
Whether the Government decides to follow NPHET's advice on opening up sporting events to spectators remains to be seen.
Spectators have returned in Northern Ireland, and there will be supporters allowed to attend GAA National League games over the weekend.
However Ulster Rugby's plan to host 500 spectators at Saturday's Rainbow Cup clash against Scarlets at Kingspan Stadium have been scrapped.
The fixture was cancelled earlier this evening after four Ulster players tested positive for Covid-19 in the latest round of squad PCR testing. All four are asymptomatic and self-isolating.
