Series of new Covid-19 restrictions to be introduced

The Government has agreed a series of new Covid-19 restrictions, including a ban on spectators at all sporting events and indoor events and household gatherings being restricted to six people.

Legislation will also be introduced to give Gardaí the power to immediately shut down any pub or other premises not adhering to public health guidelines.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin said the decision had been made to introduce “significant restrictions” following an increase in Covid-19 cases, referring to “multiple significant outbreaks”. Today’s figures show 190 new cases.

All businesses have been told to allow staff to work remotely where possible, and people have been told to avoid public transport.

People over the age of 70 have been told to limit their interactions to a small number of people and do their shopping during designated hours.

The measures will remain in place until at least September 13.

“The evidence is a large number of people are acting as if the virus is no threat to them or that it’s okay to take a few more risks,” said the Taoiseach.

The main points of this evening’s announcement includes:

• All businesses should allow staff to work from home where possible.
• outdoor events and gatherings will be limited to 15 people (down from 200)
• Visits to homes will be limited to six people from outside that home and from no more than three households. This applies to both indoor and outdoor gatherings.
• Indoor events will be reduced from 50 people to just six people, except for businesses such as shops and restaurants.
• All sporting events will now take place behind closed doors. Training sessions must follow the rule of six people indoors and 15 outdoors.
• Indoor weddings and masses are exempt from the new restrictions and can hold up to 50 people.
• A mandatory closing time of 11.30pm has been introduced for pubs and restaurants.
• Public transport should be avoided where possible. (School transport arrangements will continue as planned).
• People over the age of 70 are advised to limit their interactions to a small network, avoid public transport, and shop during designated hours.