Lockdown 2: Taoiseach promises more financial supports for people and businesses as country moves under Level 5 restrictions

The Taoiseach tonight made a televised appeal to everyone to do everything they can to combat the spread of Covid-19.

Speaking from Government Buildings, Micheál Martin confirmed the country is moving to a Level 5 lockdown, with some exceptions, from midnight on Wednesday night.

A 5km travel limit will come into effect and most non-essential shops will close.

Addressing the nation, the Taoiseach acknowledged that 2020 had been a hard year and “we’re not through it yet”.

Mr Martin also said that “many people had done all that had been asked of them but some had not”.

The Taoiseach said the Government is working to suppress the virus while it is growing and reopening the economy when infection rates fall.

Mr Martin said the current restrictions have not been enough and further action is required. He said the Government has decided that, for a period of six weeks from Wednesday night, the entire country will move to Level 5 restrictions.

He said that schools and childcare services will remain open, saying children “could not become another victim of this disease”.

Mr Martin also said there would be enhanced financial supports for individuals and businesses, as well as measures focusing on mental health.

The Taoiseach added that those living alone would be able to pair with another household as part of “a social bubble.”