Health Minister Defends Decision To Ignore NPHET Advice

The Health Minister, Wicklow TD Stephen Donnelly has played down suggestions of any rift between the National Public Health Emergency Team and the government over implementing Covid restrictions.

That's despite Tánaiste Leo Varadkar saying the proposals from Dr Tony Holohan were "not thought through". the government rejected the level five measures proposed.  Every county in Ireland will enter level three restrictions from midnight tonight.

This means that while some exceptions on travel will apply such as work or medical appointments, people will be asked to stay in their county and reduce their contact with others. Schools and childcare facilities will remain open but a number of services will be moved online. Museums and other indoor cultural venues will close,

All pubs will remain open but there will be no indoor seating permitted. Instead a maximum of 15 customers will be allowed outdoors.  Restaurants, cafes and pubs serving food remain open for takeaway and delivery and for outdoor dining up to a maximum of 15 people.

Up to 25 people can attend a wedding or funeral . No family gatherings should take place and up to six people from just one household can visit your home.