With effect from next Monday (28 February), the mandatory requirement to wear masks will be removed, while the public health advice that masks should continue to be worn on public transport and in healthcare settings remains. 

Advice in relation to COVID-19 symptoms, cases and close contacts is also changing but rapid isolation if symptomatic, completing vaccination, and continuing to manage risk remains in place.

Basic hand and respiratory hygiene should continue to be observed.

The Government met today (22 February) and considered the most recent advice received from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET). 

Stable outlook

The current epidemiological profile of COVID-19 in Ireland continues to provide a broadly stable and positive outlook. 

Following a recent moderate increase – particularly amongst young adults – the number of infections detected per day remains high but has stabilised, and may be starting to decrease. 

The Department of Transport will engage with the public transport and taxi sectors on how best to communicate the latest public health advice and having regard to the potential concerns of more vulnerable clients.

The continuation of mask wearing in healthcare settings, in line with evolving national guidance, is advised.

Continuing infection prevention and control measures in early learning settings, school-aged childcare, primary and secondary schools, including in relation to ventilation, hygiene measures and advice to stay at home if symptomatic remain in place.

Schools

Current arrangements in respect of the schools', early learning and school-aged care facilities’ antigen testing programme will also continue.

The following measures will be removed with effect from Monday, 28 February:

• Legal requirements for mask wearing in all settings currently regulated,
• Specific protective measures in place in schools and early learning and school-aged childcare facilities (pods, social distancing and staggering of breaks).