The counties of Laois, Offaly and Kildare will introduce new restrictions from midnight in a bid to low the spread of covid-19.
They will remain in place until Saturday August 21st when the situation will then be reviewed.
Residents have been told they can only travel within their own county.
Economic activity and work
Anyone in these counties who can work from home should work from home.https://t.co/B9CbtvuMi0 https://t.co/hbx23dUPKf— MerrionStreet.ie #StaySafe #HoldFirm (@merrionstreet) August 7, 2020
All cafes and restaurants, including bars operating as restaurants, should only offer takeaway or delivery, or outdoor dining.
Shops will be allowed to stay open.
Cinemas, theatres and bingo halls will also close, while visitations to nursing homes will be suspended, with exceptions allowed for compassionate grounds.
All indoor gatherings should be restricted to a maximum of 6 people from no more than 3 households in total while maintaining physical distancing.
Residents in the counties have also been recommended that they should not use public transport unless it is absolutely necessary to do so.
No sporting events or matches should take place.
Acting CMO Dr Ronan Glynn says today's measures will help to control the disease and he hopes they will only have to remain in place for 2 weeks.
HSE Chief Executive Paul Reid said “The people of Laois, Offaly and Kildare I know will be particularly disappointed tonight to be taking a step back.
I want to assure them that the HSE will continue to bring every resource at its disposal to support them in reducing the spread of Covid-19.”
