TODAY Ireland enters Phase 2 of its roadmap to reopen with shops opening their doors and a new travel limit being introduced.
On Friday, Leo Varadkar announced plans to ease restrictions are being accelerated to get the country back on its feet again.
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The Fine Gael boss effectively scrapped the final phase which was due to end on August 10 and revealed the country will now exit lockdown on July 20 – three weeks earlier than planned
From today the public will get another taste of normality with thousands heading back to work and more people able to see family and friends.
WHAT IS ALLOWED?
From today people are permitted to travel anywhere within your own county or up to 20 km from your home, whichever is greater.
These travel limits will be lifted from the end of June.
Groups of up to 6 people may meet up indoors or outdoors as long as they remain 2 metres apart and groups of 15 can meet for outdoor sporting activities.
For those who are over 70 or medically vulnerable, it will be possible to welcome a small number of visitors into your home, with physical distancing observed.
Shops will also provide dedicated hours for those who are over 70 or in an at risk group.
All retail stores can reopen, but opening times will be staggered to relieve pressure on public transport.
You are encouraged to shop locally, shop safely and support businesses in your community.
PHASE 2 MEASURES
Up to 25 people will be allowed to attend funerals of loved ones.
Public libraries will commence re-opening.
Playgrounds can reopen from Monday, and outdoor camps for children can also be run, once there are no more than 15 people involved.
Certain types of elite sports training will also be possible.
More people will be able to return to work, including all those who work on their own or whose work can be done safely while staying 2m apart from others.
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Working from home should remain the norm for those who can do so.
Marts can re-open and greyhound racing can resume without spectators.
Some businesses — including pubs, hotels, restaurants and hairdressers — will have to wait until Phase Three and Four are introduced however, before they can reopen again.