# restrictions
This year
2023
# Covid-19
Former NPHET member: Long-term school closures were 'not required'
Professor Cormican was speaking this morning to RTÉ’s Brendan O’Connor.
Last year
2022
# China
WHO holds 'high-level meeting' with Chinese officials to discuss Covid-19 surge
It comes after Britain joined France and Spain in requiring that travellers arriving from China show a negative Covid test.
# restrictions
China announces nationwide loosening of Covid restrictions following protests
Anger over China’s zero-Covid policy stoked unrest not seen since the 1989 pro-democracy protests.
# travel restrictions
New Zealand welcomes back international tourists as Covid rules are eased
The country imposed some of the toughest border restrictions in early 2020.
# China
Shutdowns spread in China as Covid infections rise
The government reported 29,411 new cases yesterday.
# Shanghai
Shanghai to start easing lockdown after mass Covid testing
Large swathes of the city, with a population of 26 million, have been under lockdown since March 28.
# Coronavirus
New Zealand announces end of Covid-19 mandates
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the announcement today.
# Covid-19
Tánaiste rules out bringing back Covid restrictions
There are currently around 1,100 people in hospital with Covid, with some 50 people in ICU.
# restrictions
‘Milestone’ day as most Covid-19 restrictions lifted today, including mask-wearing
People will still be advised to wear masks on public transport and in healthcare settings.
# Masks
Cabinet agrees to end almost all Covid-19 health measures from next Monday
Updated guidance will be issued for early learning and childcare providers on preventing the spread of infection.
# restrictions
Germany announces end to most Covid restrictions on March 20
The decision coincided with moves by neighbouring Austria and Switzerland.
# Canada
Canadian judge orders an end to lorry blockade at border bridge
The stand-off has entered its fifth day.
# The North
O'Neill says 'real prospect' Covid restrictions will have to stay in NI due to legal issues
The North’s Health Minister sought guidance following the resignation of first minister Paul Givan last week.
# Living With Covid
Boris Johnson signals end to self-isolation rules in England as part of ‘living with Covid’
He said the legal requirement to self-isolate for positive cases of Covid-19 is expected to end later this month.
# Coronavirus
Europe is heading for Covid-19 'ceasefire' that could lead to 'enduring peace', WHO says
This comes as a growing number of European nations lift almost all Covid-19 restrictions.
# Covid-19
Denmark becomes first EU country to lift all Covid restrictions despite record case numbers
The country’s health authority “recommends” that those who test positive for the virus should isolate for four days.
# coronavirus newsletter
Do boosted close contacts need to restrict their movements?
Well, about that…
# restrictions
New report of birthday party held indoors for Boris Johnson during first Covid-19 lockdown
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing fresh allegations of breaking coronavirus rules.
# omicron
New Zealand’s PM postpones wedding as she introduces tougher Covid rules
Jacinda Ardern had been planning to get married next weekend but the celebration has been postponed.
# Covid-19
Spirits high as Ireland takes big step back to normality
The majority of Covid-19 restrictions lifted at 6am on Saturday.
# Your Say
Poll: As restrictions ease, what are you looking forward to most?
The vast majority of Covid measures lifted at 6am today.
# opening up
Explainer: Why are Covid restrictions lifting now?
Most measures will be lifted tomorrow. Experts say there are good reasons for this.
# The North
Stormont ministers agree to relax many Covid-19 restrictions in Northern Ireland
They include ending the legal requirement for Covid certification to enter some hospitality venues and the reopening of nightclubs.
# Measures
Publicans will 'make every effort' to provide later opening this weekend if given go-ahead
The National Public Health Emergency Team is due to issue its latest guidance to government tomorrow.
# Coronavirus
No 10 apologises to Buckingham Palace for parties on eve of Prince Philip’s funeral
Reports suggest senior official Sue Gray could censure PM following inquiry.
# Fans
IRFU in contact with government on crowd restrictions ahead of Six Nations
The union is hoping to see the 5,000 limit lifted in time for the clash with Wales next month.
# restrictions
Playing Six Nations in one country a better option than cancelling tournament, says Rob Baxter
The Exeter director of rugby believes it is important that the national bodies explore ways to still bring in revenue from this year’s competition.
# exemptions
EPCR hoping Champions Cup games can proceed as planned this month
Work is underway to ensure travel exemptions will apply for participating clubs.
All time
# omicron
WHO warns of Omicron overload as UK records almost 130,000 cases of the virus
To hold back the tide, European nations brought back curbs with painful economic and social consequences.
# omicron
No plans for more restrictions this week, but Martin can't rule out discussions after Christmas
Micheál Martin said they are waiting on the key data on the impact of Omicron and its severity.
The Taoiseach's comments come as UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson rules out any further restrictions for Christmas.
President Higgins has this morning signed into law a bill extending the Government's Covid-19 emergency powers into the new year.
Stormont ministers are due to meet today to discuss fresh restrictions for Northern Ireland.
Meanwhile, finance minister Paschal Donohoe said he has "the ability" to extend some business supports until April if needed.
# Celtic Park
Old Firm derby will be limited to 500 fans following Scottish government's announcement
Restrictions are being introduced on sports events in Scotland from St Stephen’s Day.
# lockdowns
As new restrictions come into force here, how are other European countries tackling Omicron?
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has warned that Omicron could be the dominant Covid-19 variant in Europe by mid-January.
# Reaction
Hospitality sector express anger and disappointment at 'closure in camouflage' 8pm curfew
The restrictions are set to be in place until 30 January.
# omicron
Pubs and restaurants will have to close at 8pm under new Covid restrictions
The number of people attending sporting and live events will be capped at 50% capacity.
Pubs and restaurants will have to close at 8pm from Monday until 30 January
The number of people attending sporting and live events will be capped at 50% capacity
A maximum of 100 people can attend wedding receptions, which must end at midnight
# restrictions
Maximum of 5,000 people allowed at live sporting events under new Covid restrictions
Munster have confirmed that tickets sold on general sale for their St Stephen’s Day game against Leinster will now be declared void.
# indoor events
Indoor events to end at 8pm and reduced capacity for concerts, cinema and sporting events from Monday
Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced a number of new Covid restrictions this evening.
LIVE
This evening's developments as Cabinet signed off on harsh new Covid measures
Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced new restrictions in an address to the nation at 6pm.
NPHET recommended that pubs and restaurants be shut from 5pm.
Numerous government TDs and senators expressed anger at the recommendation.
The Taoiseach announced new restrictions, including an 8pm closing time, in an address to the nation.
# omicron
NPHET to brief coalition party leaders this evening
The meeting this evening takes place prior to NPHET’s meeting on Thursday.
Voices
Opinion: Young people have sacrificed more than any other group, it's time this was recognised
Adam Hallissey argues that young people have paid the heaviest price in the pandemic.
# Plan B
New restrictions announced in England in bid to tackle Omicron variant
Boris Johnson said it’s clear the new strain is ‘growing much faster’ than Delta.
