Major easing of Covid restrictions to be announced this week

A man walks past empty seating outside a pub in Dublin, after the 8pm closing time was introduced. File Picture: Damien Storan/PA

A major easing of Covid-19 restrictions is to be announced this week, amid growing optimism that the worst of the Omicron wave is over.

A number of significant measures are to be recommended by the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet), which meets on Thursday, including the ending of the 8pm closure time of pubs and restaurants.