Ireland relaxes limitation on public gatherings & weddings but PM warns of 'uncertainty'

Republic of Ireland has lifted restrictions on indoor events and large crowds. Weddings with live music and dancing can resume on Monday, according to BBC. Organised outdoor events and mass meetings can be held at 75% of venue capacity but audience can only contain people who have been vaccinated appropriately against COVID-19 or have recently recovered from disease. 

Religious ceremonies can take place at 50% of venue capacity regardless of people's immunity status. atres and Cinemas are allowed to function at a capacity of 60%.

Irish Prime Minister noted that "huge uncertainty exists"

Irish government agreed last week on a proposal to eliminate most COVID-19 measures by October 22. According to BBC, cabinet's planned timeline predicts that 90% of ults would be vaccinated and that number of Covid-19 cases would become "manageable". Despite relaxations, Irish Prime Minister, Micheál Martin, noted that "huge uncertainty exists," particularly with proliferation of Delta variant.

Indoor and outdoor group activities such as sports, arts, culture, and dance lessons will be less restricted from September 20, according to Irish government's romap. A phased and staggered return to work would also be included. According to spokesperson for Music & Entertainment Association, Matt McGranaghan, government should recognise that workers in this sector will not return to full employment immediately, and insisted that social welfare benefits should reflect this.

BBC reported that citizens are still expected to maintain social distancing and wear masks whenever y move outside. Also, number of people who can attend outdoor and indoor events are limited. Religious or civil rituals are also restricted. Access to participation in any activities or events requires proof of vaccination, immunity, or testing with exception of international travel, and high-risk activities such as nightclubs are still restricted.

wage subsidy plan will last until end of 2021

Irish Deputy Prime Minister, Leo Varkar TD said on Monday that exemptions were me possible by Ireland's "world-class vaccination programme." According to RTÉ News, he said it was now suppressing Delta wave. Mr Varkar also stated that wage subsidy plan will last until end of 2021 and that reduced VAT rate of 9% would last until summer of 2022.

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