On Friday January 21st, the Irish Government announced that it was easing the pandemic restrictions. It is package of measures that will allow travelers to explore the country more comfortably and without forgoing any pleasures. This was welcomed by Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, who said, “This is excellent news for tourism and the hospitality industry. It means we can now move forward and start planning vacations in Ireland with confidence for next year”.
On December 20th, following the arrival of the Omicron variant, the country opted for the closure of nightlife and a curfew in the hospitality industry, in addition to recommending teleworking. One month later, the Government has lifted the restrictions on nightlife, the curfew for bars and restaurants, and the social distancing measures due to the pandemic.
This was announced by the Irish Deputy Prime Minister, Leo Varadkar, when he stated that the Government could be “less cautious” in lifting the restrictions against the pandemic after verifying that the effect of the omicron wave has not been worse than that of a “bad seasonal flu”.
I have stood here and spoken to you on some very dark days. But today is a good day.
Micheál Martin, Ireland’s Prime Minister
The use of face masks has become compulsory only in stores, schools and public transport until February 26, as determined by the Dublin Executive, a coalition of centrists, Christian Democrats and Greens. Thus, every visitor says goodbye to the use of the mask in the open air to be able to fully immerse themselves in the incredible natural landscapes of the region.
“We have weathered the Omicron storm, with the rate of infection reduced, booster shots increasing, and all key indicators going in the right direction,” Ireland Prime Minister Micheál Martin said in a national address.
With these new measures, the country already allows to enjoy the Irish gastronomy without the need to present the Covid digital certificate in bars or restaurants. In addition, it is also not necessary in leisure activities such as cinemas, theaters or gyms. However, it is mandatory for international travelers, who must visit Ireland with a Covid passport.
According to the Irish news outlet The Mirror, unless things change between now and March 17, Dublin organizers are “full steam ahead” on planning the return of the massive St. Patrick’s Day national celebration. Unvaccinated travelers have to show a negative test taken within 72 hours of arrival.