LATEST: Kilkenny among 226 new cases of virus, Government to announce easing of restrictions
A further six people have died after contracting the coronavirus as 226 new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed this evening.
The overall death toll as a result of the virus now stands at 2,028. There are now 70,930 confirmed cases of Covid-19 across the country, according to the latest daily briefing from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET).
The breakdown of the latest cases is as follows: 64 are in Dublin, 41 in Donegal, 23 in Tipperary, 13 in Limerick, 12 in Louth, 12 in Wicklow, and the remaining 61 in 16 other counties, including eight more infections in Kilkenny.
The latest cases were confirmed amid reports today that the Government will announce an easing Covid-19 restrictions that will come into effect from next week.
Cabinet members held a discussion on the restrictions this morning and a further meeting is expected to take place on Friday, after which an annoucement is expected to be made.
This will be preceded by a meeting of the NPHET tomorrow and possibly a meeting of the Covid-19 Cabinet sub-committee on Thursday.
Reports indicate the Government is likely to reopen restaurants and gastro pubs and issue guidelines to allow for indoor dining.
However, it is thought the chances of so-called ‘wet pubs’ reopening are slim.
Ministers must also decide when inter-county travel will be permitted in the days leading up to Christmas. Guidance on household gatherings will also be issued.
PHOTO: Market Yard outdoor seating area, Kilkenny city
