In an address to the nation this evening (Tuesday), Taoiseach Micheál Martin, outlined the next phase of easing restrictions 'COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting'.

The Government has agreed that during the period between September 1 and October 22, they will continue the careful and gradual approach to reopening, while supporting maximum reach of the vaccine programme and allowing time to achieve the full benefits for all those currently being vaccinated.

"Your effort and sacrifice has helped to save lives," he said.

He added that because of the uptake of the vaccine by the public that "we're now entering a whole new phase of the pandemic".

The Government has agreed that "the time is now right" to reopen many more sectors of society.

He added that if a new variant emerges "we will move quickly to respond" to it.

With the Delta variant, he added, "great uncertainty remains" and "we will have to remain vigilant". As we move in to this new phase, he said, "it'll be a time of trepidation for some".

EASING OF RESTRICTIONS:

Sept 1: Public transport will return to 100% capacity

Sept 6: Organised indoor events and mass gatherings can take place with capacity limits of 60% where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months), or accompanied minors (under 18), in line with sectoral guidance.

Sept 6: Cinemas and theatres will have capacity limits of 60% of venue capacity where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months

Sept 6: Outdoor events are permitted at a 75% capacity where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months), or accompanied minors (under 18), in line with sectoral guidance.

Sept 6: All religious ceremonies can proceed with 50% of venue capacity, regardless of immunity status of attendees.

Sept 6: Coach tour activity can recommence at 50% capacity with protective measures.

Sept 20: Organised indoor group activities (sports, arts, culture, dance classes) can take place with capacity limits of 100 people (with appropriate protective measures) where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months), or accompanied minors (under 18).

Sept 20: Restrictions on outdoor group activities for participants will be removed.

Sept 20: Return to work can be done on a phased basis

Sept 20: Restrictions on outdoor group activities for participants will be removed.

Oct 22: Almost all restrictions lifted but masks will be needed in some settings

COVID CASES

This evening 1,382 additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed while 355 COVID-19 patients are in hospital, with 54 of those patients in intensive care (ICU).

VACCINES

As of yesterday (Monday), there have been 6,818,637 doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered in Ireland:

* 3,451,531 people have received their first dose
* 3,367,106 people are fully vaccinated