The Tánaiste has warned that it is “too soon” for people to book flights home for Christmas.
Leo Varadkar’s comments come amid ongoing discussions on the level of COVID-19 restrictions that will be in place for the festive season.
The National Public Health Emergency Team is meeting this lunchtime to discuss the latest progress with level 5.
Yesterday, Micheál Martin indicated that the government’s plan is to move to Level 3 restrictions once lockdown ends.
But hours later, in their weekly parliamentary party meeting, Fianna Fáil members pushed for fewer restrictions and a move to Level 2.
That would allow for more travel and more visits to peoples’ homes over the festive period.
However, this afternoon’s comments from Tánaiste Leo Varadkar show there’s no guarantee at this stage as to what restrictions will look like in six weeks time.
Questioned about the government’s plans in the Dáil, he had this message for people hoping to be re-united with loved ones this Christmas.
The matter will be decided on by government, though their course of action will largely rest on advice from the Chief Medical Officer.
In Clare, some businesspeople are hoping for the best, and say it’s badly needed.
Clare pub workers are fearful that they won’t be able to have a Christmas while relying on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment.
Ennis publican and Clare VFI Chair Darragh McAllister says certainty for the sector is needed.
Health experts, however, are remaining increasingly cautious about the prospect of lifting restrictions too quickly and are warning businesses and the public not to get ahead of themselves.
Professor of Public Health at the University of Bristol, Gabriel Scally, says a phased return to normality should only happen once the virus is suppressed.
