The Tanaiste says there are no plans to bring in a lockdown after Christmas to contain the spread of the Omicron variant.
New restrictions taking effect today mean pubs, restaurants, cinemas and theatres have to close at 8pm.
While indoor and outdoor events are limited to 50 per cent capacity until the end of January.
Tanaiste Leo Varadkar says he read reports in the paper about "secret plans to tighten restrictions or impose another lockdown".
He said while that's not on the table, "nothing can be ruled out".
"This is so unpredictable and it's an unprecedented association," he added.
Meanwhile, new financial measures aimed at supporting businesses affected by the 8pmn curfew are expected to be announced by government shortly.
