Republic of Ireland extends lockdown for three more weeks
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has extended the Republic of Ireland’s coronavirus lockdown by three weeks, saying the decision has been taken on expert advice.
The restrictions will now remain in place until at least Tuesday 5 May.
“I know many of us would like to know when things will go back to normal and life will be as it was,” Mr Varadkar said, at a briefing on Good Friday.
“We are working towards that time and we’re planning carefully, so that we get there safely. The truth is nobody knows when that will be or how our lives will be different when it comes.
“All we can do for now is to take one day at a time. To think of others and to choose hope and solidarity over self-interest and fear.
“Your decisions will save lives.”
The UK Government has not yet laid out plans as to how and when its lockdown will be lifted.
Health Minister Matt Hancock is giving the daily coronavirus briefing on Good Friday, in the absence of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
He is still recovering from Covid-19 in hospital.
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