The majority of Covid-19 restrictions will end on October 22nd according to plans before Cabinet this afternoon.
Ministers will meet this lunchtime to sign-off on the roadmap, which's due to kick-in from next week.
Last night senior ministers and health officials met to consider timelines for easing the remaining Covid-19 restrictions.
Under plans set to go before Cabinet later, the first easing would kick-in from September 6th.
That would see the following:
- First easing on September 6th - larger crowds at gigs and outdoor sports matches.
- 75% of capacity for outdoor gigs for fully vaccinated people - with reports of 60% for indoors.
- Communions and confirmations.
- Live music could be allowed at weddings
The next significant date for reopening is September 20th.
From here, we can expect:
- That's the return to the office on a phased basis
- Indoor sports and activities like bowling and bingo will be allowed
- Extra-curricular, after school activities like drama and dance to resume
The proposed roadmap would see the final restrictions lifted by October 22nd, and the country move to a personal responsibility model.
However mask wearing would remain in certain settings.
The plan comes with the caveat that the Covid numbers remain manageable.
The Taoiseach will address the country at Government buildings tonight - for what could possibly be the last time.
