Regional Lockdowns Could Be Introduced As Covid-19 Cases Rise

Localised Covid-19 restrictions could be imposed in Kildare, Laois and Offaly later today. Over 70s and those in at risk categories in the three counties have been advised against using public transport.

226 cases have been confirmed there over the past two weeks, while O Brien Fine Foods in Timahoe in Kildare has suspended all operations following 80 cases among workers, while A further 42 are being tested.

The Acting Chief Medical Officer says he will be back with further guidance for people in these counties later today, once the confirmed cases start coming in. SIPTU says it is not surprised at the recent outbreaks of Covid-19 within food plants.
Meanwhile the head of the State's modelling advisory group says a house party is the perfect way for Covid-19 to spread within the community - particularly to the elderly and vulnerable