It’s been a busy morning at Cork supermarkets.

As Ireland gets to grips with a raft of new restrictions to slow the spread of Covid-19 in Ireland, images of long queues outside Cork food retailers have been shared on social media.

Now the Taoiseach has advised the public that takeaway will remain open and grocery supplies are operating as normal, so if you don’t need supplies urgently there will be plenty of opportunities to get what you need later.

HUGE QUEUES GATHER OUTSIDE CORK SUPERMARKETS – Following last nights announcement by Leo Varadkar in an update on the Government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic large queues have formed at supermarkets around the city. #CoronaLockdown #NpRedFM Neil@redfm.ie pic.twitter.com/RiouBp7k0i

— Neil Prendeville (@NeilRedFM) March 28, 2020

“No need to do all shopping or stockpile this morning.” said Taoiseach Leo Varadkar in a tweet.

“Food stores and takeaways staying open in the emergency. The 2km is about exercising locally. You can go beyond the 2km to buy food and medicines. The supplies are good. We all have a part to play in rising to this challenge.”

Essential items can still be found in smaller grocery stores such as Menloe Stores in Blackrock, where you can find coffee, milk, bread and vegetables.

For your safety and ours… #staysafe pic.twitter.com/NulzIxbTbL

— menloe stores (@MenloeStores) March 27, 2020

Menloe’s is also offering a ‘call and collect’ service where they bring your order to your car and free same-day delivery from Monday to Saturday before 1pm on 021 429 42 44.

On Barrack Street in Cork city, Twomey’s Shop (pictured above) is serving one customer at a time inside the premises. Inside the choice is limited but they’ll likely have enough to get you to your full grocery shop.