Family and friends will be able to visit their loved ones in nursing homes from today.
The opening of care homes to visitors had originally been part of phase three of the ending of Covid-19 restrictions
But earlier this month Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan said it was believed the conditions were right to bring that forward
Under the guidelines, a maximum of two visitors per resident is permitted while visits will have to be scheduled to keep footfall down while temperatures checks will also be carried out.
Shopping centres across the country are also opening their doors today as part of the easing of Government restrictions.
All customers are being advised to wear face coverings, while extra measures will be in place to keep staff and shoppers safe, including hand sanitiser, one way systems and signage for social distancing.
