Restrictions on restaurants and pubs are expected to be central to discussions between the Government and public health officials next week as the plan for exiting the lockdown is finalised. These are likely to be defined by public health experts advising caution while some Government figures push for as wide a reopening as possible, according to several people involved. Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said he wants Ireland to exit Level 5 of Covid-19 restrictions on December 1st. Spread of the virus in indoor and uncontrolled environments, especially when alcohol is being consumed, is a significant concern for the National Public Health Emergency Team, The Irish Times understands. Elsewhere, the first meeting of the State’s Covid vaccine taskforce is scheduled for early next week, it is understood.

Source: The Irish Times November 21, 2020 01:18 UTC