The Government has announced the reintroduction of restrictions in Kildare, Offaly and Laois.

It follows concern at the rising number of Covid-19 cases in the three counties.

The restrictions come into effect at midnight tonight and remain in place for two weeks.

TRAVEL

Residents will be permitted to travel outside of these counties for the following reasons:

  • To travel to and from work, where it is not possible to work from home
  • To attend medical appointments and collect medicines and other health products
  • For vital family reasons such as caring for children, elderly or vulnerable people, but excluding social visits
  • For farming purposes, including food production and care for animals

People should not use public transport unless necessary.

Travel is permitted through the counties, but people are asked not to stop in the counties.

EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE

Creches and childcare facilities will remain open.
Playgrounds and other outdoor amenities will also open.
Preparations for reopening of schools can continue.

SOCIAL

Cafes, restaurants and pubs serving food should close from tonight, except for the purpose of serving takeaways.
Outdoor dining up to a maximum of 15 people with appropriate social distancing will be permitted.
Cinemas, theatres, museums, galleries, bingo halls, casinos, betting shops and other indoor recreational and cultural outlets should be closed.
All retail outlets may remain open, but with strict adherence to public health guidelines, including the wearing of face coverings.

GATHERINGS

All indoor gatherings including any type of household, private family or social indoor gatherings of people will be restricted to a maximum of six people from no more than three households in total.
All outdoor gatherings are to be limited to a maximum of 15 people.
Social distancing must be maintained in all cases.

SPORT

No sporting events or matches should take place, however non-contact sports and training may continue outdoors, subject to a maximum of 15 people.
Contact sports should cease except for training for professional and elite athletes.
Horse racing behind closed doors may continue.
Gyms will be closed for two weeks from tonight.

VISITS

Visits to nursing homes, prisons and acute settings in these three counties should be suspended, except on compassionate grounds.
Places of worship may remain open for private prayer.
Mass and other religious services should be delivered online or through remote means.
A maximum of 25 people can attend funerals.

GENERAL ADVICE

Those who can work from home should do so.
Continue to do the things that will protect yourself and others.
Frequent hand washing and practice cough and sneeze etiquette.
Keep a safe distance of two metres.
Minimise close contacts.
Wear a face covering on public transport and in retail settings.
Over 70s or medically vulnerable should limit interactions and stay at home as much as possible.