1 min ago
Everything that can be done to get the booster into people’s arms is being done, the Taoiseach said. The testing regime is also being ramped up to help stem the spread of the new variant, he added.
However, because of the threat of Omicron, the following restrictions will be in place from Sunday:
- Restaurants and bars (excluding takeaways/delivery) must close at 8pm,
- No indoor events after 8pm,
- Earlier indoor events capped at 50% or 1,000 attendees,
- Outdoor events capped at 50% or 5,000 attendees, whichever lower,
- Wedding receptions capped at 100 attendees.
5 mins ago
Addressing the nation, Taoiseach Micheál Martin says the Omicron variant is “exploding throughout Europe”.
“I spoke with European leaders yesterday, and the level of concern about what is coming is the highest that I’ve seen,” he said.
“It is here. It is in our country. We are going to see a massive rise in infections,” Martin warned.
9 mins ago
The hospitality sector has reacted with anger following the announcement of further restrictions on trading hours.
Adrian Cummins of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said: “This has been a devastating blow for hospitality businesses and employees this evening.
“The majority of hospitality businesses rely on income from the Christmas period to see them through the quieter first two months of the year. The loss of income over Christmas is about more than just the festive season, it is about surviving the winter months.”
14 mins ago
Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has said the cabinet’s decision to close hospitality from 8pm was “a welcome acceptance of the intention of our advice”.
Nphet’s recommendation for a 5pm curfew was part of a “series of recommendations” aimed at reducing the incidence rate, Dr Holohan said.
“The key thing was to drive down, as much as possible, social contact. Contact is going to be a good deal greater in the evening time,” he added.
Holohan welcomed the move, saying it would impact the spread of Omicron.
22 mins ago
Taoiseach Micheál Martin will address the nation at 6pm and a press briefing will take place at 6:40pm.
8pm closing time for hospitality
43 mins ago
The Journal understands that the cabinet has agreed to an 8pm closing time for the hospitality sector. Three hours later than the 5pm closing time recommended by NPHET.
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Read More: Cabinet agrees 8pm closing time for hospitality sector