Ireland’s remaining Covid measures could be dropped as soon as next week as the Cabinet meets to make a final decision on the easing.
On January 22, the government opted to drop the vast majority of measures in place in a bid to begin a return to normal life amid Covid-19.
While the mandate on most rules concluded, a few were still deemed necessary to stop the rapid spread of the Omicron variant in the community.
NPHET is due to meet on Thursday to discuss the current Covid situation here in Ireland and make their recommendations to Government.
It is unlikely that a Cabinet meeting would follow on Friday, with any changes to rules not expected until Tuesday or Wednesday next week, however reports are already suggesting that mask-wearing could be dropped ahead of February 28.
This was the day earmarked for the change last month, however, there was a bit of recent uncertainty around whether or not it would go ahead as case numbers remain high.
Now, it seems people entering retail, getting on public transport, and attending school may be able to leave the masks behind in line with potential changes.
There will however be one setting where masks remain mandatory, and that is on airplanes.
Due to the varying rules in effect across all EU countries, at this point, it may not be possible to drop this restriction.
Other rules that are due to remain in place internationally is the need for proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative test when travelling.
All those who have received their two doses in the initial series of vaccination are still subject to a 270 day expiry period before needing the booster for travel.
Within this period, passengers can take EU trips without being subjected to other measures such as testing and quarantine.
Anyone who has recovered from the virus, and has a note from a registered health provider saying they have recovered is also exempt from testing. The Covid Cert in this scenario will expire after 180 days.
For those who have received an additional dose or a booster, at this point, there is no expiry date for travel.
Some countries have made vaccination mandatory for entry, however, there are some destinations that will allow unvaccinated members of the public in with proof of a negative test.
