What shops are open? How far can I travel? What you can do from today as Phase 2 Plus begins

With Phase 2 Plus commencing today, many restrictions are being eased. We’ve laid out exactly what this means for us, and the advice that accompanies these measures. 

As the government’s roadmap for the easing of Covid-19 restrictions has been moved forward, today marks the beginning of Phase 2 plus. This means that from today, June 8, there are a number of things we can now do, and businesses that can open. Here is a full list of the Phase 2 Plus measures.

How far can I travel? 

You can now travel up to 20km from your home, or anywhere within your county boundaries.

Can I meet friends and family?

You can meet up with up to six people, either indoors or outdoors, although social distancing is still advised. It has also been advised that meeting outdoors carries less risk.

What shops are open? 

Most shops are now allowed to open, as long as they have measures to ensure social distancing is enforced, including queues to restrict how many customers can enter, and additional hygiene measures. Not every shop will open its doors, however. Some retailers including Arnotts, Brown Thomas and Penneys have announced they will take a few more days to ensure measures are in place. Shopping centres are also not allowed to open until June 15.

Do I still need to practise social distancing?

Yes. The government is still recommending you stay two metres from anyone who is not in your household where possible.

Do I need to wear a mask?

The government is recommending that people wear face masks where they will be coming into close proximity to others, including in shops and on public transport.

Can I use public transport? 

While more businesses are open, people are being asked to walk or cycle when visiting them if possible, to prevent overcrowding public transport for the key workers who rely on it.

Can I attend a funeral?

Small funerals are now permitted, with up to 25 family members and friends being allowed to attend a person’s funeral.

Are the over 70s allowed to go out? 

Anyone who was previously cocooning, including the over 70s and anyone who is medically vulnerable, is asked to continue to stay home as much as possible. You can visit these people in their homes, as long as you maintain social distancing and it is recommended that you wear a mask and gloves.

Can I play sport or attend events? 

Outdoor organised activities of 15 people or fewer are now permitted, including exercise, cultural events and social activities. Elite athletes are also allowed to return to training.

Will my child’s summer camp go ahead?

Summer camps that are held outdoors may go ahead for secondary school children in groups of under 15 people.

Will my local library reopen? 

Yes. Public libraries are allowed to open from today.

Can I travel abroad? 

Non-essential international travel is still not permitted, and anyone arriving in Ireland from overseas will be asked to self-quarantine for 14 days.

Can I visit a nursing home?

From June 15 limited visits to nursing homes will be permitted as long as the facility has no current Covid-19 cases. Each resident will have only two named visitors, only one of which can visit at a time. Visits will also need to be arranged in advance.

Should I go back to work?

Government advice remains that everyone who can work from home should continue to do so.

Featured image: Gregory Dalleau

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