Donnelly plays down impact of foreign travel as Phase Four put on pause

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly speaking at a post-cabinet press briefing at Dublin Castle. Picture Julien Behal/PA Wire

The Health Minister has played down the impact of foreign travel on the spread of the coronavirus following the news Ireland will not be moving to Phase Four of the easing of Coronavirus restrictions next week.

The reproductive rate of the virus has now increased to between 1.2 and 1.8 and Phase Four has been delayed until August 10.