Phase 2 in full: All retailers allowed to open

People can move freely within their own county, and all retailers can reopen, under the new Phase 2 guidelines announced by the Taoiseach this afternoon.

The Cabinet has also agreed to bring forward actions in the remaining phases, so there will now be just four phases, rather than five. Phase 3 will be starting June 29^th and Phase 4 on July 20^th.

“I can confirm that it is safe to move to Phase 2 in the plan to reopen our country,” Mr Varadkar said.

“Covid-19 is still having a major impact on our country. By working together we have made progress – but the virus is still in Ireland.

“As we reopen our country, it is vital that we all continue to observe the public health guidance. To stay safe, you need to limit where you go and limit the number of people you meet.”

The five main guidelines for Phase 2 are:

Stay Local: You may travel within your own county, and up to 20 kilometres from your home if crossing county boundaries.

Meeting other people: You may meet up to 6 people from outside your household both indoors and outdoors for social gatherings. Organised outdoor exercise, sporting, cultural or social activities of up to 15 people may take place

Shops: All retail is reopening. Shop locally, shop safely and support businesses in your community. (Shopping centres can open on June 15)

Work from home: It is more important than ever to work  from home where possible.

Transport: Walk or cycle if you can. Only use public transport if you absolutely need to. Public transport capacity is limited because of social distancing requirements.

Meanwhile, it has been announced that the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme and the Pandemic Unemployment Payment will be extended until the end of August.

Under Phase 2, the following advisories have been announced:

Community Health

It is recommenced that face coverings be worn in public places, such as shops, and on public transport. You may meet up to six people from outside your household both indoors and outdoors for social gatherings. Organised outdoor exercise, sporting, cultural or social activities of up to 15 people may take place. If you are over 70 or medically vulnerable be extra vigilant. Up to 25 immediate family and close friends may attend funeral services.

Children

Outdoor summer camps may operate for post-primary children.

Playgrounds and commercially-serviced outdoor amenities may reopen.

Economic activity and work

Working from home must continue wherever possible.

Marts may open where social distancing and hygiene can be maintained.

Retail, services and commercial activity

All retail outlets may open. Opening times and modes of operation may vary. Please co-operate with store staff and abide by systems put in place for your safety.

Cultural, sporting and social

Groups of up to 15, including trainers and coaches, may return to non-contact outdoor training activity (but not matches) while maintaining social distancing at all times.

Public Libraries will commence reopening.

Behind-closed-door horse and greyhound racing can commence.

Public Transport

Social distancing means that overall capacity remains extremely restricted. Use public transport only for essential journeys.

Wearing a face covering is recommended.

Avoid peak-time travel.

Walk or Cycle if possible.

International Travel

All non-essential overseas travel to and from Ireland should be avoided.

Passengers arriving from overseas are expected to self-isolate for 14 days.

Advice for those over 70 or the medically vulnerable

If you are over 70 or medically vulnerable, please use your judgement to decide how best to apply the following health guidance:

stay home as much as possible; you may welcome small numbers of people to your home, but maintain social distancing;  for shopping, please use the times specially allotted by retailers; if you are visiting someone who is over 70 or medically vulnerable, please be extra-vigilant.

On June 29th, Phase 3 will commence and see the opening of hotels, restaurants, hotels, caravan parks, galleries and museums, and make it possible for bars that also operate as restaurants to be able to reopen.