TAOISEACH Micheal Martin has warned the nation that coronavirus will almost certainly still be an issue for us all in a year's time.
In a pubic address on Wednesday evening, Martin insisted that Ireland needed to be prepared for a lengthy battle with the virus, and must do all it can to prevent further spread.
"[The virus] will be with us for a long time, certainly the next 12 months," he told reporters.
Although the Taoiseach confirmed that Ireland was still in a very good position in relation to its battle with Covid-19, he warned against foolish and irresponsible actions which could see the country lose its foothold in the fight.
After a significant rise in the number of cases across Ireland over the past couple of weeks, a decision to delay the country's move into Phase Four of the roadmap to lifting lockdown restrictions was taken.
Pubs which were due to reopen on Monday will now remain closed until August 10, much to the displeasure of pub owners (and customers) around the country.
It was also announced that face masks are to be mandatory for anyone visiting shops or public indoor spaces, while no more than 10 people are said to be allowed in other people's homes due to concerns about house parties.
As for indoor and outdoor gatherings, limits of 50 and 200 people respectively have been put in place.
Over 25,000 people in Ireland have contracted coronavirus since the outbreak began, while more than 1,700 people have died from the disease.
