An exit plan for the Coronavirus restrictions will be announced by the Taoiseach this evening.
An extension of the current lockdown is likely to be confirmed by the cabinet, despite warnings about the impact of the current restrictions on mental health.
The National Public Health Emergency team has been meeting this morning to discuss the medical advice on the future of lockdown measures.
Its recommendation will go to the cabinet at 3pm where Ministers will be asked to sign off on it.
It’s clear that there will be little, if any change.
Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan, who is chairing this morning’s meeting, doesn’t think we’re in a position to ease measures
The decision on what happens next lies with Ministers, and there is disagreement around the cabinet table
Some Ministers calling for some easing of measures particularly for the elderly who are having to cocoon.
Social Protection Minister Regina Doherty says big decisions have to be made:
An announcement will be made by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar this evening, likely between 6pm and 8pm, and given the division within government on the matter, it’s possible that the continued restrictions will be greeted with a mix response.
Last evening, in the Dáil, Clare Independent TD Michael McNamara reflected the frustrations felt by many as he said the pandemic is taking a significant toll on peoples’ mental health.
Details are also expected this evening on a broader plan for the gradual easing of restrictions over the coming weeks.
It’s expected to focus on three stages with three-week intervals with some parts of the economy that can safely practice social distancing possibly being allowed to re-open from the middle of this month.
There’s also likely to be an announcement about childcare in the home for healthcare workers.
