It's been confirmed that many coronavirus restrictions will now be lifted earlier than planned on June 29th.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar says most things - with some exceptions - are now being 'moved to phase three' of the reopening plan.
From June 29th barbers, hairdressers, hotels, restaurants and pubs that serve food will be allowed to re-open.
All sports - including contact sports - will be allowed to resume from the end of June as well, while there will be significant changes to the rules around public gatherings.
Up to 50 people will be allowed to meet indoors from June 29th, rising to 100 in late July.
Outdoors up to 200 can meet with social distancing from the end of the month, later rising to 500.
The changes mean many weddings will be able to go ahead.
Smaller concerts and theatre productions will be allowed, with cinemas also set to reopen.
The changes mean spectators will be allowed back at sporting events in reduced numbers.
In a statement at Government Buildings this evening, Leo Varadkar confirmed Cabinet had signed off on plans to speed-up the reopening of the country.
He said: "Apart from some exceptions, most things are now being moved to phase three - beginning on Monday 29th June.
"All sporting activity - including close contact sports - can recommence.
"But we all need to stay careful - it will not be as it were before the pandemic."
He pointed to churches, places of worship, gyms, cinemas, leisure facilities, hairdressers, beauticians and barber shops as some of the places that will be allowed reopen in ten days time.
He stressed the announcement comes with 'terms & conditions' as the virus remains in the country.
People are still being urged to maintain social distancing and wear face coverings in crowded areas.
On the subject of personal responsibility, the Taoiseach suggested: "It means not entering somewhere if you see that it's packed... it means leaving a place - even if you're having a good time - if you've been there too long."
