Easing of restrictions for over 70's being explored

It is being reported that an easing of restrictions is being explored so that those aged over 70 currently cocooning could begin to leave their homes once again from early next week.

Along with the restrictions on over 70's being reduced, also being examined is that the two kilometre limit for exercise may also be extended to 5km.

Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, will address the public on steps to ease the existing Covid-19 restrictions later this evening.

His statement will follow a meeting of the Cabinet where the Government is considering the recommendations of the National Public Health Emergency Team.

Latest figures from the HSE show there are just under 1,000 people in hospital with confirmed or suspected cases of Covid-19.

A total of 359 new cases of the virus were announced last night, with 727 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the country's acute hospitals, and 260 suspected cases.