The next update on Covid-19 in Ireland will see the government decide whether or not we’re in a position to ease the remaining rules in place to stop the spread of the virus.
On January 21, it was announced by Taoiseach Micheal Martin that the majority of restrictions would be lifted in line with the current health situation and vaccination rates.
The two remaining public health measures in place until February 28, 2022, are:
- requirements for mask-wearing in all settings where currently regulated for (public transport, taxis and at stations/airports/ports, all retail premises, healthcare settings, and for workers in customer-facing and food preparation)
- protective measures in schools and early learning and care facilities
On Thursday, Mr. Martin suggested that people may have the option of whether to wear their masks in certain settings in the coming months.
With the measure review date fast approaching, he said:“I personally am comfortable wearing the masks in shops, public transport and when going into crowded areas. That’s just a personal thing.
“I think more and more as we go along it will be more of a personal dimension. In other words, we do what we feel comfortable doing.
“That applies to shaking hands and each person can do it differently. There will be people with different perspectives on this.”
The Taoiseach went on to say that from what we’ve learned about the virus, is that it peaks in winter, and so there may be a need for mask-wearing to come back in the future if an outbreak occurs.
He added: “I think the key question for the public is when will it be mandatory and not mandatory, when will that lift?
“We take advice on that, but it is being kept under constant review.”
On Monday, new workplace guidance was published by the Government to reflect the easing of most Covid-19 restrictions.
Although face masks are only required in healthcare, transport, retail, and in other public-facing jobs, the document says wearing face coverings is still good practice, particularly for those sharing work vehicles.
Meanwhile, on the topic of easing measures in schools across the country, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn indicated that NPHET may allow for the dropping of mask rules for school pupils at the end of the month.
