DUE TO THE resilience and solidarity of the Irish people and our exceptional support for the vaccine programme, we will change how we manage and live with COVID-19 from 22nd October.

Many of the restrictions will be lifted and replaced by guidance and advice to enable us to work together, as individuals and communities, to protect ourselves and to live our lives to the fullest extent possible. 

These are the changes that will take effect in the coming weeks:

The following restrictions will be lifted:

• Public Transport: Public transport returns to 100% capacity from 1st September
• Workplace: Return to work may commence on a phased and staggered attendance basis from 20th September in line with the Work Safely Protocol
• Events: Easing of restrictions on organised indoor/outdoor events/mass gatherings from 6th September (see gov.ie/recovery for details). Easing of restrictions on indoor/outdoor group activities from 20th September (see gov.ie/recovery for details)

The following restrictions will be lifted:

• Requirements for physical distancing, mask wearing outdoors and in indoor private settings
• Limits on numbers that can meet in private homes/gardens
• Limits on numbers at indoor and outdoor events and activities
• Restrictions on religious or civil ceremonies
• Certification of vaccination, immunity or testing as a prerequisite for access to, or engagement in, any activities or events (with exception of international travel)
• Restrictions on high-risk activities (i.e. nightclubs) 

Measures that will remain in place include self-isolation when we have symptoms, continued social distancing and avoidance of crowds where appropriate. We will continue to wear masks where necessary to protect ourselves and by law in healthcare settings, indoor retail, and on public transport.

During this phase, Government will continue to provide supports to workers and businesses under the Economic Recovery Plan.

For up-to-date information on all matters relating to COVID-19, please go to gov.ie/recovery