Ireland has seen a surge in coronavirus cases, prompting a partial reconfinement of three of its counties. As a result, all residents living in the counties of Kildare, Laois, and Offaly are required to stay at home. This decision affects more than 368,000 people in total.
Partial Reconfine to Curb the Spread of Covid-19 Cases
Residents Affected Urged Not to Leave the Region
The calm was short-lived. While Ireland seemed to have the coronavirus epidemic under control, three regions of the country are now challenging the nation’s health stability. With over 226 new cases recorded in just 14 days, the Irish government, led by Micheál Martin, decided to “lock down” three of its hardest-hit counties. The guidelines for residents are clear:
- Residents are not allowed to leave their respective counties.
- Outings are permitted only for work and essential travel.
- They cannot host more than 6 people at home.
- Gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited.
These measures are expected to last at least two weeks and may be extended depending on how the health crisis evolves.
Government Delays Reopening of Irish Pubs Amid the Epidemic
In response to the situation, the Irish government also announced it will postpone the final phase of its reopening plan. Originally scheduled for August 10, this phase included reopening all Irish pubs, bars, and hotels across the country.
However, this much-anticipated date will be pushed back. Micheál Martin, the Irish Prime Minister, stated:
“Although the numbers remain low, we must keep the pressure on this virus. Therefore, pubs, bars, hotels, nightclubs, and casinos will remain closed.”
This preventive decision further threatens the economic survival of these establishments.
The situation is expected to be reassessed within three weeks.
Meanwhile, the government has made mask-wearing mandatory throughout Ireland in shops and shopping centers, effective from August 10.
Regarding the so-called “Green List,” Ireland has decided to remove Cyprus, Gibraltar, Malta, Monaco, and San Marino from the list of countries allowed to travel to Ireland without quarantine. This is another blow to tourism in Ireland, which is increasingly weakened by the crisis.
For context, no deaths from COVID-19 have been recorded in Ireland for several days. However, Irish authorities are concerned about a rise in cases, particularly among young people.
Currently, Ireland reports 1,772 deaths and 26,253 positive cases, with a population of 4.9 million.
