Galway

<h1 style="text-align:left;">Lifting of some Covid-19 Restrictions: Phase 2</h1>
 
COVID-19 is still having a major impact on our country. By working together we have made progress – but the virus is still in Ireland.

As we reopen our country, it is vital that we all continue to observe the public health guidance. To stay safe, you need to limit where you go and limit the number of people you meet. 

These measures are part of the second phase of lifting the public health restrictions that were put in place to protect us all from COVID-19. They come into effect on top of the measures in phase 1. The roadmap has since been amended to have 4 stages instead of 5.
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<h1 style="text-align:left;">Community health</h1>

It is recommended that face coverings be worn in public places, such as shops, and on public transport.

<h1>Public transport</h1>

Social distancing means that overall capacity remains extremely restricted. Use public transport only for essential journeys. 
Wearing a face covering is recommended. Avoid peak-time travel. Walk or cycle if possible. &nbsp;

<h1>Travel</h1>

You are able to travel within your county or up to 20 kilometres away from your home, whichever is greater — as opposed to the 5 kilometre limit which was in place since 5 May. The travel limits will be lifted at the end of June.

The advice is to still avoid unnecessary journeys wherever possible.


<h1>Social Visits</h1>


Groups of up to 6 people are able to interact with each other indoors or outdoors, once they keep at least 2m apart.

Groups of up to 15 are able to meet for outdoor sporting activities. &nbsp;

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<h1>Cocooning</h1>


Shops will provide dedicated hours for those who are cocooning (people over the age of 70 and those who are medically vulnerable) with strict social distancing and gloves made available. Shoppers should ideally wear face coverings.

Those who are cocooning can have a small number of visitors to their home, with physical distancing observed.


<h1>Funerals</h1>

A slightly larger number of people can be in attendance at funerals but numbers are still restricted to immediate family and close friends and limited to a maximum number of 25 mourners for a limited period of time where social distancing can be maintained.


<h1 style="text-align:left;">Work</h1>


More people can return to work, including all those who work on their own or whose work can be done safely while staying 2m apart from others. Working from home should remain the norm for those who can do so.
Social distancing requirements continue to apply.

The <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/22829a-return-to-work-safely-protocol/" target="_self"><ins>Return to Work Safely Protocol </ins></a>is the operative guide for employers and employees.


<h1>Shops that can reopen</h1>

 All retail stores can reopen, but opening times will be staggered to relieve pressure on public transport. You are encouraged to shop locally, shop safely and support businesses in your community.

The wearing of face coverings is highly recommended.
 Shopping centres can re-open on June 15th provided only shops open and measures are taken to ensure people do not congregate at benches, fountains or food courts.&nbsp;


<h1>Sport, tourism and culture</h1>


Marts can be opened where social distancing can be maintained. Horse and greyhound racing can resume without spectators.

Public libraries may open so long as social distancing is observed and there is strict hand-sanitising in place for anyone who goes into the library.


<h1>Group Exercise</h1>

People can take part in outdoor sporting and fitness activities, involving team sports training in small groups (but not matches) where social distancing can be maintained and where there is no contact. 
Certain types of elite sports training is also possible. 


<h1>International travel</h1>

All non-essential overseas travel to and from Ireland should be avoided.

Passengers arriving from overseas are expected to self-isolate for 14 days.

<a href="https://www.gov.ie/locatorform/" target="_self"><ins>Passengers will also have to complete a form showing where they will self-isolate.</ins></a> &nbsp;


<h1>Playgrounds and summer camps</h1>

Playgrounds and commercially-serviced outdoor amenities reopen, and outdoor camps for children can also be run, once there are no more than 15 people involved.
 A new Summer Education Programme for children with special educational needs and disadvantage, will also commence, as the indications are that it is now safe to do so. The Minister for Education and Skills, Joe Mc Hugh, will bring proposals in this regard to Government next week. The focus of the programme will be on students and young people with complex needs – including those who live with significant behavioural, social, emotional and sensory difficulties. Children with Down Syndrome will be included as part of our plans for this summer.&nbsp;


The above information has been extracted from official documentation provided by the Department of the Taoiseach. Guidelines are for the general public. Find out more at <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/7ae99f-easing-the-covid-19-restrictions-on-june-8-phase-2/" target="_blank">https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/7ae99f-easing-the-covid-19-restrictions-on-june-8-phase-2/</a> &nbsp;

Lifting of some Covid-19 Restrictions: Phase 2

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