'It's too soon' - Simon Harris urges public to stay at home over the weekend

Sinn Féin's health spokesperson Louise O'Reilly, however, criticised the Minister for "mixed messages" on vigilance.

The Health Minister has urged people to stay home this weekend, saying that restrictions would not be eased at all in the coming days, given where Ireland finds itself.

Speaking in the Dáil today, Simon Harris said that he understands the focus on the relaxation of restrictions, but says that as a country "the next 12 days are crucial" in suppressing Covid-19.