Phase 2 – Taoiseach announces measures
TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar TD has today confirmed that Ireland can from this Monday, June 8, move to Phase 2 of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business.
The Government also announced an acceleration of the Roadmap, made possible due to the progress made by the country in suppressing the virus.
An acceleration means that certain sectors and public amenities can open earlier than previously planned.
However, as the country moves into Phase 2, people are urged to continue limiting travel and to stay local.
The Government also stressed that as the Roadmap is accelerated, everyone must continue to stick to basic hygiene and social distancing measures; wash hands regularly, keep 2 metres apart, observe coughing etiquette and avoid crowded places.
What measures will come into place this Monday, June 8?
-You can travel within your own county, or up to 20 kilometres from your home, whichever is greater. These travel limits will be lifted from the end of June
-Groups of up to six people will be able to interact with each other indoors or outdoors, once they keep at least 2 metres apart
-Groups of up to 15 will be able to meet for outdoor sporting activities
-For those who are over 70 or medically vulnerable, it will be possible to welcome a small number of visitors into your home, with physical distancing observed
-Shops will also provide dedicated hours for those who are over 70 or in an at risk group
-All retail stores can reopen, but opening times will be staggered to relieve pressure on public transport
-You are encouraged to shop locally, shop safely and support businesses in your community
-Up to 25 people will be allowed to attend funerals of loved ones
-Public libraries will commence reopening
-Playgrounds can reopen from Monday, and outdoor camps for children can also be run, once there are no more than 15 people involved
-Certain types of elite sports training will also be possible
-More people will be able to return to work, including all those who work on their own or whose work can be done safely while staying 2 metres apart from others. Working from home should remain the norm for those who can do so
-Marts can reopen and greyhound racing can resume without spectators
-A new Summer Education Programme for children with special educational needs and disadvantage, will also commence, as the indications are that it is now safe to do so. Proposals are being brought to Government next week.
“We are making progress” – Varadkar
According to Taoiseach Varadkar: “Today, I can confirm that it is safe to move to Phase 2 of the plan to reopen our country from Monday.
“This has been made possible by the considerable sacrifices you have made to restrict the spread of the virus and protect each other.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (file shot)
“During this emergency we have suffered as a country, lost loved ones, and changed the way we work and live.
“We are making progress.
“We are heading in the right direction. And we have earned the right to be hopeful about the future.”
Under the reconfiguration of the Roadmap, there are now just two remaining phases instead of three, with Phase 3 starting on June 29, and Phase 4 on July 20.
Shopping centres can reopen on June 15 provided only shops open and measures are taken to ensure people do not congregate at benches, fountains or food courts.
Social distancing measures will also mean that capacity on public transport will remain very restricted.
People are encouraged to only use public transport for essential journeys, and wearing a face covering is recommended when using public transport.
For further details visit the Gov.ie website HERE.
