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Restaurants and pubs are likely to be told to close from Christmas Eve under proposals being considered at the meeting.
The ban on flights from the UK is also expected to be extended until the end of the year.
Last night, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan set out a stark picture of rising case numbers, as well as fears over the new strain of the virus emerging from the UK.
He told them Level 5 restrictions will be needed at some point after Christmas.
Following that meeting, a number of recommendations are going to Cabinet which is set to increase Covid-19 restrictions - but reject the recommendation to go to Level 5.
Updated / Tuesday, 22 Dec 2020
18:04
Micheál Martin said the move was in response to the extraordinary increase in Covid-19 cases
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said that the country will return to Level 5 restrictions with adjustments between 24 December and 12 January.
Mr Martin said the move was in response to the extraordinary increase in Covid-19 cases, with a 10% daily growth rate that is simply not sustainable .
Speaking at Government Buildings, he said that while there is no evidence yet the more virulent strain of the coronavirus is here, the safest and most responsible thing to do is to proceed on the assumption that it is already here .
Restaurants And Gastropubs To Close On Christmas Eve Under Plans Going To Cabinet This Morning
It comes as Ministers have been warned Level 5 restrictions will be needed after Christmas.
Last night the Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan made a presentation to the coalition party leaders last night setting out a stark picture of rising case numbers as well as fears over the new strain of the virus emerging from the UK.
He told them Level 5 restrictions will be needed at some point after Christmas.
Following the meeting a number of recommendations are going to cabinet today.
From mid-afternoon on Christmas Eve restaurants, gastropubs, hairdressers, barbers, beauticians, cinemas and galleries will have to close.
Updated / Tuesday, 22 Dec 2020
18:04
Micheál Martin said the move was in response to the extraordinary increase in Covid-19 cases
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said that the country will return to Level 5 restrictions with adjustments between 24 December and 12 January.
Mr Martin said the move was in response to the extraordinary increase in Covid-19 cases, with a 10% daily growth rate that is simply not sustainable .
Speaking at Government Buildings, he said that while there is no evidence yet the more virulent strain of the coronavirus is here, the safest and most responsible thing to do is to proceed on the assumption that it is already here .