Confirmed cases of Covid-19 increased substantially over the weekend.
People will face fines of up to €2,500 or six months in jail if they don't comply with new face covering regulations that come into effect from today. Face coverings are now mandatory in shops, shopping centres and other indoor settings. Over the weekend the confirmed Covid-19 cases increased substantially with significant outbreaks in Kildare, Laois and Offaly.
As well as all shops and shopping centres, these regulations also apply to libraries, cinemas, nail bars, hair dressers, dry cleaners, tattooists and travel agents. There are some circumstances for health, age or equality reasons where face coverings are not necessary and the Government are imploring people not to judge or criticise those who are unable to wear one.
This morning, Irish businesses have already tweeted about the new regulations:
As well as face coverings people are being advised to still do the important things necessary to prevent the spread of the virus.
- washing your hands properly and often
- covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough and sneeze
- not touching your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
- social distancing (keeping at least 2 metres away from other people)
You can find out more information on the Government's face covering guidelines
here .
