The 5km travel rule will be extended on Monday.

But it looks like we’ll have another three weeks to wait before a decision is made on which businesses can begin reopening next month.

Now Liz Canavan, assistant secretary-general at the Department of Taoiseach has revealed that the next significant date in the calendar is likely to be May 4th, when the remaining construction sites and some outdoor retail will reopen.

Speaking at Wednesday’s Covid-19 briefing, Ms Canavan also said the Government is considering a proposal to reopen salons, hairdressers and barbers on a staggered basis. Sources suggest that people who have been fully vaccinated may be first in line, but any changes to the restrictions will be entirely dependent on Covid-19 case numbers next month.

“If we can hold firm for a little bit longer, and if the health situation allows, a further of easing of restrictions will be considered from May 4th.” said Canavan.

“Areas being considered are the full reopening of construction, the phased return of non-essential retail starting with click and collect and outdoor retail like garden centres and nurseries, the recommencement of personal services on a staggered basis, reopening of museums, galleries and libraries and the recommencement of religious services on a staggered basis.”

What’s happening on April 12th?

Monday will see the 5km limit extended to allow travel within the county, all secondary school students return to class together and residential construction kick into gear all over the country.

The rules will also permit people to meet one other household outdoors in a public area (not in a private garden).