In a statement issued by the Government yesterday, it has been decided that Cabinet will meet on Monday to discuss further. Only then will a decision be made on whether Ireland should move to a higher level of restrictions.

Statement from Government:

Earlier today the Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan, Deputy CMP Dr. Ronan Glynn, and Professor Philip Nolan gave a detailed presentation to the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Minister Ryan, Minister Donohoe, Minister McGrath and Minister Donnelly on the latest data relating to COVID-19 in Ireland.

The CMO gave an analysis of the virus in each region of the country and Chief Executive of the HSE Paul Reid gave an assessment of current hospital response capacity, and an update on the test and trace system, which the HSE is continuing to expand.

Presentations were also given on the economic, employment and society wide implications of moving to more severe restrictions.

Other significant issues were also discussed such as mental health and domestic violence.

Fundamental to the discussions was the overarching aim of protecting lives and livelihoods.

The Health team briefed Ministers that children were safer in schools, transmission rates are low, and that the continued opening of schools is very important to the development and wellbeing of children and young people.

The Cabinet will meet on Monday to consider the matter further.

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