The Taoiseach has said he shares people's frustrations and disappointment with the new restrictions announced yesterday evening, which are aimed at curbing the spread of Covid-19.
Micheál Martin said this is not another lockdown, but rather a readjustment of measures to respond to the current threat. Following warnings from the National Public Health Emergency Team that the new Omicron variant risks causing another surge, ministers felt they had little choice, and the Government accepted the recommendations, which will be in place from next Tuesday until 9 January.
Under the measures announced by the Taoiseach, nightclubs will closed and there will be tighter measures adopted in bars, restaurants and hotels.