People don't expect 'normality' until 2021 - ESRI

A costumer waits in line, paying attention to social distancing marks painted on the ground before entering a shop to prevent the spread of coronavirus, COVID-19. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Most people do not expect a return to normality until 2021, with indoor social activities not expected to be a reality until at least September, according to new research from the ESRI.

The study found most people anticipate Covid-19 restrictions and social distancing measures to be lifted slowly and gradually. It was conducted among 800 adults the week before the Taoiseach's May 1 announcement on the unwinding of Covid-19 restrictions and reveals most of the population did not expect a rapid return to normality.