What would Level 5 mean for us?

If the government take NPHET's advice and introduce Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions for the next six weeks, what will it mean for us?

Although not quite as severe, Level 5 restrictions are the closest to those introduced in the original lockdown in the spring; however, schools can remain open and weddings and funerals with only six people attending can go ahead.

Apart from that though, they are very similar to measures introduced in late March.

Gatherings

Aside from very small weddings and funerals, there would be no gatherings (indoor or outdoor) of people from more than one household.

Sports

According to the details published last month, all sporting fixtures, including those involving elite athletes, would be postponed. While there had been hopes among some sports fans the the GAA inter county championships could go ahead under Level 5, Tanáiste Leo Varadkar said yesterday that this wouldn't be the case.

Hospitality

Bars serving food, restaurants and cafes can stay open but only for take away food or delivery. Wet pubs, many of which closed when Level 3 restrictions were introduced last, could technically remain open, but again only for takeaway or delivery service.

Travel

While under Levels 3 and 4 people can travel within their own county and can go further afield for work and education purposes, under Level 5 people would be confined to their homes except for exercise within a five kilometre radius from their homes.

Retail/Service Industry

Only businesses providing essential services can remain open under Level 5.