Ireland is open and restricted no more
After being one of the most restricted and locked down countries, Ireland has scrapped most Covid restrictions. With a high vaccination rate, Omicron has spread rapidly through the country but the high infection rate has not led to high hospital or death rates.
The good news also is that when you look back over the excess death rate over the past two years, Ireland has a much much lower excess death rates than most countries in the world. Restrictions worked and vaccinations are now doing their job. Ireland is on the up!
Covid Certs no longer needed for pubs
Taoiseach Micheal Martin announced the changes yesterday after the government made decisions based on NPHET advice.
From 6am today:
- Any number of people can gather with no more restrictions on household visitor numbers
- Restaurants and bars can stay open beyond the restricted time of 8pm
- Sporting events and fixtures can have 100% attendance (good news as there are lots of big upcoming rugby games)
- Indoor events and weddings will have no restrictions on numbers
- No contact details need (Goodbye Covid Cert) to be given in restaurants, cafes and pubs
- Social distance rules are gone and sitting at the bar is allowed in pubs again
Masks
For the moment masks will still need to be worn on public transport, in shops and other settings. Also Covid Certs will still be needed for travel.
With the changes in Ireland, the country will drive on and of course still continue with the vaccination programme. Over 5 year olds can receive the vaccination now and with take up being low in this section of the population I imagine the government will probably heavily promote it with advice to contact your GP for guidance if you are unsure whether to bring your child for vaccination. Boosters are also available for all who are due to get one.
Ireland has done well but Covid has not gone away - I intend to continue to take care and will consider whether I consider situations I find myself in to be safe. If I think certain situations sound unsafe, I won't attend. Spring is also coming, the evenings are getting brighter and spending time outside is probably the safest option.
It's a positive move and although life has gone on for the passed two years it is a great boost to see most restrictions going.
Ireland is moving onwards and upwards - we are resilient and we prevailed!
