All businesses can reopen as planned on Friday.
In an address this afternoon, the Taoiseach has confirmed that a number of restrictions will remain in place however.
The planned re-opening of nightclubs and other sectors can go ahead on Friday with Digital Covid Certs in place.
In an address in the past few moments, the Taoiseach has confirmed that 10 adults will now be allowed at a table when dining indoors, up from 6.
Vaccine passports will not be required for outdoor events and capacity limits on indoor and outdoor events have been lifted, while there will be no capacity limits on indoor live events.
A booster vaccine campaign for over-60s will start immediately.
Michael Martin says the government had to take account of the relevant public health statistics in making its decision.
Religious services and weddings can also proceed as planned from Friday.
Rev Henrica Marike Peek of JaYesTa Ceremonies in Broadford says while many people have been happy to have more intimate ceremonies during the pandemic, those who wish to wait are “clogging up the system” over the coming two years.
The extension of rules around mask wearing, social distancing and Covid certs will remain in place until February and the Taoiseach has confirmed that legislation will be required.
A Clare restaurateur believes, meanwhile, that people should boycott business who are flouting the rules.
It follows signals from Government that inspections will be ramped up within the hospitality sector in an effort to prevent against the further spread of Covid-19.
Frank Landy from Sweet n Green in Ennis says he’s heard anecdotally of businesses who haven’t been adhering to the rules and he believes this may be the right move.
