‘Hope, excitement and relief’ as Ireland prepares for extensive reopening

Q Radio News/PA

The Taoiseach said the sense of “hope, excitement and relief” in the Republic is palpable as he confirmed the widespread reopening of the country over the summer.

Micheal Martin said that while the end of the pandemic is “within our grasp”, he urged the public to “remain vigilant against the terrible virus”.

As Mr Martin unveiled the Government’s plans over June, July and August, he said that the reopening of society and the economy will depend on Irish people following the guidelines in place.

Confirmed, RoI:

Outdoor service at bars and restaurants from June 7. Indoor service from July 5.

Non-essential international travel from July 19.

From August 5, 200 people will be allowed at indoor events and the 50% limit on capacity of public transport will be lifted. https://t.co/eNSTEfY6wq

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) May 28, 2021

Speaking at Government Buildings in Dublin, Mr Martin confirmed that on June 2, hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses and self-catering accommodation will reopen.

On June 7, outdoor services in bars and restaurants will reopen along with cinemas and theatres.

On the same date, up to 200 people can attend outdoor events in venues with a minimum capacity of 5000, and up to 100 can attend other outdoor events.

Driver theory test services and an incremental reopening of Driver Test Centres will also reopen.

There will also be a number of pilot sporting and cultural events taking place in June and early July, to test the logistical requirements for further reopening.

Ireland's Culture Minister Catherine Martin and Transport Minister Eamon Ryan leaving Dublin Castle after a Cabinet meeting. Ms. Martin has said pilot live gigs could take place from June across a range of genres from classical music to comedy and theatre while Mr. Ryan said that while there will be a "significant reopening" of society in the next two months, he warned the public to be careful. 

From July 5, indoor hospitality will reopen while indoor events will recommence, with a maximum of 100 attendees in larger venues and 50 in all others.

There will be a further increase in the numbers attending outdoor events, while indoor exercise and sports activities will return.

From July 5, up to 50 guests will be able to attend wedding receptions.

From August 5, there will be a further increase in numbers attending indoor events, with 200 in larger venues and 100 in all others.

A further increase in number attending outdoor events.

The 50% capacity restriction on public transport will be lifted, and up to 100 guests will be able to attend weddings.

Mr Martin said Ireland is taking “definite steps towards enjoying normal times with friends and loved ones again”.

He said: “We are almost back to a point where we can just enjoy the ordinary, extraordinary moments in our lives. The sense of hope, excitement and relief is palpable.

“But as we watch what is happening across the globe, we, of course, know that we must remain vigilant against this terrible virus. We know there have been many twists and turns on this journey.

“I have talked many times about the strength that is found in solidarity and how managing the pandemic must be a collective effort.

“This coming month could be the most important test of that spirit that we have faced since this ordeal began.”

He added: “We all want out of the restrictions, but that will require each of us, as individuals, business owners, arts and sports officers, as friends, neighbours and family, to stick to the guidelines that are still in place for the coming period.”

The Taoiseach also confirmed that international travel with the European Union will return from July 19.