Level 5 Lockdown Extended to 5 April
News
24 February 2021For those wishing to travel to Ireland:
Level 5 Lockdown in Ireland has been extended to 5 April. However, some restrictions for educational facilities and childcare will be lifted in the coming 6 weeks.
- Firstly, the phased and safe return of in-school education will start. From 1 March, schools will be re-open for junior infants to second class, and Leaving Certificate students. This will involve the return of over 320,000 pupils. This reopening will be monitored. The aim is for all classes to return after the Easter break.
- Secondly, reopening of childcare will be expanded. From 8 March, the early childhood pre-school programme will reopen for all participating children. From 29 March, subject to public health advice, other restrictions will be lifted so that all other children can return to early learning and childcare services.
- Lastly, non-COVID health and social care services over the coming weeks will be resumed.
In advance of 5 April, the situation will be reviewed. There are a number of areas where the Irish Government will be assessing progress when considering what changes may be possible. The Government will examine whether it will be safe to begin easing the restrictions on outdoor activities and amending the 5km limit on non-essential journeys.