DUBLIN – Ireland, which had one of Europe’s longest COVID-19 lockdowns, plans to lift almost all covid-19 restrictions in October after one of the continent’s most successful vaccine rollouts, Prime Minister Micheal Martin said on Tuesday.
As part of a phased easing of restrictions, Public transport will return to 100% capacity from September 1, 2021.
From September 6, organised indoor events and mass gatherings can take place with capacity limits of 60% of venue capacity where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within the last 6 months), or accompanied minors (under 18), in line with sectoral guidance.
Where patrons have mixed immunity status, there will be no change to the current restrictions during September.
Indoor events and mass gatherings include conferences, trade fairs and exhibitions and large-scale business events involving external audiences, and bingo venues.
For indoor live music, drama, live entertainment and sporting events, the audience/spectators should be fully seated. Easing of capacity limit restrictions does not apply to large privately organised social events.
Live music may commence having regard to appropriate protective factors.
Cinemas and theatres will have capacity limits of 60% of venue capacity.
In weedings there will be no change to the current limits (100 guests) during September, live music at weddings will be permitted.
Organised outdoor events and mass gatherings can take place with capacity limits of 75% of venue capacity where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within the last 6 months).
All religious ceremonies can proceed with 50% of venue capacity, regardless of the immunity status of attendees.
Coach tour activity can recommence at 50% capacity with protective measures.
From September 20, Organised indoor group activities (sports, arts, culture, dance classes) can take place with capacity limits of 100 people (with appropriate protective measures).
Multiple pods will be permissible subject to protective measures, a number of pods will have regard to the size of the venue and substantial social distance between individual pods.
Restrictions on outdoor group activities for participants will be removed.
Attendance at work for specific business requirements may commence on a phased and staggered attendance basis from 20 September.
From 22 October onwards, final restrictions will be lifted including:
Requirements for physical distancing
Requirements for mask wearing outdoors and in indoor private settings
Limits on numbers at indoor and outdoor events and activities
Restrictions on religious or civil ceremonies
Limits on numbers that can meet in private homes/gardens
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 (nightclubs for example)
Measures that will remain in place include:
- self-isolation when we have symptoms
- mask wearing in healthcare settings, indoor retail and on public transport
