Vaccine certs, mask wearing and social distancing in some indoor settings is likely to stay in place past Friday.
Cabinet Ministers will meet this morning to decide to discuss how to ease restrictions.
"The continuation of the Covid certs is certainly an item on the agenda as is mask wearing" says Micheál Martin.
Taoiseach also indicates Cabinet taking another look at antigen testing and its role in re-opening on Friday
— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) October 18, 2021
The Government is also again examining a possible expanded role for antigen testing.
Questions remain for Cabinet around nightclubs, and extended opening hours for bars and restaurants.
It's expected there will be a mix of views at the Cabinet table this morning.
Some Ministers will advocate a cautious go-ahead with the easing of some of the restrictions, while others would prefer to delay rather than face having to reimpose measures down the line.
Cabinet meets at 9am this morning, with an announcement expected by lunchtime.
NPHET Advise Government To Take A Cautious Approach
It's understood NPHET is recommending a cautious approach to Government.
They've suggested to Ministers to consider delaying re-opening as explanations are sought for the recent rapid rise in cases, hospitalisations and ICU admissions.
One Minister last night admitted they hadn't figured that out yet.
He suggested our proximity to the UK and waning vaccine immunity may be playing a role.
