Irish Government confirms end of almost all Covid-19 restrictions
The Irish Government has announced the ending of nearly all the country's Covid-19 restrictions, effective from 6am on Saturday, 22 January.
In an address to the nation, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that “today is a good day” as he has confirmed the majority of Covid-19 public health measures were being removed.
The wearing of masks, where currently required, will continue, as advised by the National Public Health Emergency Team, he said. This means that for the time being masks are still to be worn in hair and beauty salons, along with spas. Mask wearing rules will be reviewed at the end of February.
Advice on close contacts, symptoms and positive cases stays the same, and will also be reviewed by the end of February.
Bars, restaurants and nightclubs can operate normal trading times, which should boost business in the hair and beauty sector. Covid passes or social distancing will no longer be required in these venues.
The Government has also decided to continue and extend the provision of a number of Covid-19 supports, such as the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS). The Taoiseach noted that the “recovery of our society and economy is already underway” and “we will continue to do what is necessary to support it”.
The reduced levels of EWSS, due to commence on 1 February, will be delayed by a month for businesses that were directly impacted by the public health restrictions introduced in December 2021.
A restart payment of one week’s support will be paid to Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS) recipients to assist reopening.
The Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) will close for new applications from 22 January, while anyone remaining on PUP will move to a weekly rate of €208, with effect from payments made on 8 March.
The Irish Spa Association welcomed the Government announcement on its social media. “Some businesses may choose to continue to observe distancing in certain treatment areas, and temporarily maintain their sneeze guards to allow nervous guests and customers regain confidence,” it said.
“There is absolutely no obligation to maintain these measures effectively from 6am on 22 January. We are thrilled with the prospect of finally moving forward with confidence for the year ahead.”
The Hair and Beauty Industry Confederation (Habic) also welcomed the “brighter days ahead” on social media.
“While today is a good day, and we can finally start to return to our normal lives, it's important to remember that the pandemic is not over, and ongoing close monitoring of the virus must continue,” it said. “In this regard, we must continue to follow the current advice for those with symptoms, cases and close contacts.
“We wish all our members happy trading in the days ahead, and hope your salons will be bustling with customers for all the weddings and events that can now take place, restriction-free.”
