Cabinet to discuss Level 5 restrictions on Monday

Coalition leaders met already today (Saturday) to discuss how they feel is best to respond to the expert advice but any final decision must be made by the full Cabinet.

A full Government Cabinet meeting will take place Monday to discuss NEPHET’s recommendation to move the entire country to Level 5 restrictions.

The development comes as members of the Covid sub-committee met today (Sunday).

Modified Level 4 arrangements are also expected to be discuss at what is being billed as a crucial meeting in how the country tries to come to terms with spiralling infection numbers nationwide.

Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris confirmed the Government is to enact more "decisive and nationwide" restrictions.

Coalition leaders met yesterday (Saturday) to discuss how they feel is best to respond to the expert advice but any final decision must be made by the full Cabinet.

Earlier this week, NPHET recommended that the government moves Ireland into Level. It was the second time such a recommendation was made in the past two weeks.

Under Level 5 restrictions, most social activities would be stopped or significantly limited.

In addition to no visitors being allowed to homes or gardens, no social or family gatherings would be allowed to take place in other environments.

Bars, cafés, restaurants and pubs will remain limited to take away or delivery services only and only essential retail would be allowed to open.

READ MORE: Government statement after NPHET meeting