According to Micheal Martin (Irish Prime Minister), the Irish government has agreed that almost all its Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted as of last weekend.
“Today’s a good day,” Martin stated, adding that the Republic of Ireland had “weathered the Omicron storm” during a press conference.
According to him, customers would not be required to show proof of Covid status to enter hospitality or entertainment facilities.
Bars, restaurants and nightclubs will reopen as usual.
Bars, restaurants, cinemas, theaters, and other hospitality and cultural establishments must close at 20:00 local time.
Martin also stated that restrictions on family gatherings and on the number or individuals allowed to attend events will be lifted.
Some restrictions will remain in place, such as wearing a mask in public transport and in shops, until February 31st.
The government is one of the most careful in the European Union when it comes to the risk of COVID-19. It has imposed some of the strictest travel and hospitality restrictions.
It is being phased out that vaccine certificates are required for international travel.
Employers will have time to prepare for the transition to work. Mask-wearing on public transport will continue to be in place for the next month.
Friday was marked by a sense of hope in radios, as there was an indication that the pandemic was under control, with Omicron infection rates dropping and hospital populations stabilizing.
However, people were shocked by the rapidity of change after two years and over 6,000 deaths from Covid.
Martin expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation over the past two years and said: “I understand deeply that so many people have lost loved ones. But, no one should doubt that your collective efforts saved many thousands of innocent lives.”
This post was written by a medical professional at The Wellness Firm. The Wellness Firm services include workplace flu clinics, flu vaccinations, onsite event Covid testing, physical exams for employment, as well as American Heart Association CPR certification classes. Founded by local Firemen, The Wellness Firm has been providing a safer Tampa Bay since 2006.