IRELAND has undergone a significant easing of restrictions today as the country hurtles closer and closer to the end of life under lockdown.
While Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced last week that the vast majority of restrictions would be eased on October 22, there are still some milestones to be hit before then.
As of today, September 6, live music has returned in Ireland, while large crowds are now allowed at indoor venues. There are also changes to rules regarding religious ceremonies, cinemas and coach tours.
There will be further lifting of restrictions on September 20, according to the roadmap, but here's what's changing today:
Live music
Live music is now permitted in all pubs, venues and events such as weddings - which have a cap on 100 attendees at the moment.
Indoor events
Larger crowds are now allowed into organised indoor events. Venues will now be able to use up to 60% of their capacity, so long as the attendees are fully vaccinated, or have recovered from the virus in the last six months.
If there is a mix of vaccinated and un-vaccinated attendees, venues are limited to just 50 people per indoor event.
Outdoor events
Organised outdoor events are now allowed to run at 75% capacity, again so long as the attendees are fully vaccinated.
If there is a mix of vaccinated and un-vaccinated attendees, then sites must not exceed 50% of their capacity.
Cinemas and theatres
Cinemas and theatres can now operate at 60% capacity, so long as every guest is fully vaccinated. There is 50-person limit if the guests are a mix of vaccinated and un-vaccinated.
Coach tours
Coach and bus tours are now able to run at 75% capacity, with protection measures in place such as social distancing where possible.
September 20
In two weeks' time, we will see the start of a phased return to offices and other work-spaces. Indoor group activities such as sports, dancing and drama will be allowed to go ahead with up to 100 people - so long as they're all fully vaccinated - and restrictions on outdoor activities will almost all be lifted.
