In line with the plan set out in COVID-19 Resilience & Recovery 2021: The Path Ahead, the Government has announced (30 March 2021) the phased easing of some restrictions for the month of April, to commence on 12 April 2021. 

The Government’s Press Release on the matter can be read here and the Taoiseach’s speech here. 

For information about the National Vaccination programme, Government Financial supports to businesses and to individuals see here. 

For information about Coronavirus symptoms, testing and keeping well see the HSE’s website here. 

Easing of restrictions, the Republic of Ireland by date (see also more detailed information on work, travel, etc on the Government’s website here):

APRIL

From 12 April 2021:

  • Full return to in-school teaching.
  • Two households can meet up with one another outdoors for social and recreational purposes (this does not include private gardens). Masks should be worn in crowded outdoor spaces.
  • Travel within own county or within 20km of residence if crossing county boundaries.

Construction:

  • All residential construction projects can recommence.
  • Early Learning and Childcare and school-aged childcare services will be added to the list of essential services for construction activity during these restrictions to align with the current exemption to primary and secondary schools (where school building projects are progressing) and to allow important fire safety works to progress.

From 19 April 2021:

Expansion of elite sports to include:

  • Training for and playing of National Governing Body sanctioned and organised adult intercounty National Gaelic Games Leagues, not including under 20 or minor competitions.
  • Certain high-performing athletes as approved by Sport Ireland, in a range of sports.

From 26 April 2021 (subject to prevailing public health situation):

  • Outdoor sports facilities can reopen (e.g. pitches, golf courses and tennis courts, other facilities as appropriate). 
  • Outdoor visitor attractions can reopen (i.e. zoos, open pet farms, heritage sites). 
  • Underage non-contact outdoor training in pods of 15 can recommence for all exercise activities that can be delivered outdoors including dance.
  • Maximum attendance at funerals will increase to 25. 
  • Those who have the full protection of the vaccine may visit indoors with one other household who also has full protection. 

MAY

The measures announced on 30 March will continue up to the 4 May, at which point the following areas will be under consideration: 

  • Full re-opening of construction activity.
  • Phased return of non-essential retail commencing with click and collect and outdoor retail i.e. garden centres/nurseries.
  • Recommencement of Personal Services on a staggered basis.
  • Re-opening of Museums, Galleries & Libraries 
  • Recommencement of religious services on a staggered basis

Members in our GB region should access this website here for Covid-19 information relating to the GB region.

Members in Northern Ireland should access this website here for information relating to our Northern region.

Members of our Australian region should access this link here and our New Zealand members here.