The Government has today agreed that Level 5 as set out in the Plan for Living with COVID will be extended until March 5th in an attempt to stop the spread of the killer virus. Level 5 is the highest and most serious level and has the strictest measures implemented. The news comes after several weeks of cases surging in the country. Cases are nearing 200,000 with deaths close to 3,000 (via Worldometer 26th of January)
Commenting on how things have been dealt, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin was rather pleased with the success of Level 5 so far however case numbers are “too high” to leave the harsh lockdown just yet. The message is simple, stay at home saves lives!
The Level 5 restrictions are as follows:
- People are asked to STAY AT HOME except to exercise within five kilometers from their home.
- People must work from home unless it is necessary to attend in person (essential workers eg doctors, nurses and retail assistants).
- No visitors are allowed to your house.
- No organised events are to take place.
- No indoors and outdoor gatherings are permitted, other than attending funerals (10 mourners) or weddings which is limited to six guests.
- Only essential retail are to remain open.
- Click and collect from non-essential retail outlets will no longer be permitted.
- Construction is to close except under certain circumstances.
- Cafes, restaurants and bars/wet pubs are only to offer a takeaway or delivery service.
- Hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs are open for essential purposes only.
- Public transport is limited to 25% capacity. It is reccomended to avoid public transport and to cycle or walk if possible.
- Schools, creches and universities will be closed however further reccomendations will be made based on cases numbers in an area.
- Visiting to care houses has been suspended.
- Face coverings must be worn on public transport and in shops.
There have been extra restrictions added in a bid to curb the spread of the deadly virus:
- There will be checkpoints within 5km from the Northen Ireland Border.
- Further fines will be issued to those in breach of restrictions such as travelling further than 5km for non-essential reasons.
- A travel ban from South Africa and Brazil (new varients) is now in effect.
- It is now the law to self-isolate after travel abroad alongside a 72hr negative COVID Test.
- There is now a mandatory quarantine for arrivals without negative test.
The measures that are to be implemented have come at the behest of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) who have expressed concern at rising case numbers in recent weeks and have subsequently offered recommendations to the Government for implementation.
Sources:
Level 5 Information – Updated Regulary
