Another step in the right direction.

Ireland is set to take another step forward in its recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic today as the easing of several restrictions comes into effect.

Perhaps the biggest change is to indoor events such as live music, live performance, sporting events, cinemas and theatre, where venues can now operate at 60% of their capacity as long as the audience is verified to be vaccinated or immune (meaning recovered from Covid in the previous six months).

Outdoor events can increase their capacity to 75% as long as attendees are categorised as fully vaccinated or immune. Capacity is now at 50% for events where attendees are not necessarily verified to be vaccinated, and such events will still be subject to social distancing measures and face coverings.

While the maximum capacity for weddings – 100 attendees – has not changed, there has been an easing of restrictions on live music, and dancing, both of which are now permitted.

Religious ceremonies and coach tours can also now proceed at 50% venue/vehicle capacity.

The next update of Ireland’s restrictions is scheduled to fall on September 20th, two weeks from day. The government has stated its intention that all restrictions be removed by October 22nd.