Gatherings
There is no longer a limit on the number of people who can visit together, as long as all are fully protected by vaccination or have recovered from COVID-19 infection within the last nine months.
The number of people allowed to attend organised events has now been increased to 200. Where venues have a capacity of over 5000 people, a maximum of 500 are currently allowed to gather.
Organised events, bar and restaurant services, training, group exercise or dance venues will not yet be allowed to open. This action is pending the implementation of a new vaccine verification system. A plan in this regard is expected from the Government on 19th July 2021.
50 guests can attend weddings and funerals, regardless of the size of the venue. Wakes, either in a house or at the funeral home, should be attended by family only.
Baptisms, first holy communion and confirmation ceremonies remain prohibited at present.
Nursing home visits
Nursing home residents may receive up to 4 visits per week where the care home has had over 80% vaccination of residents and staff.
Visitors will be required to wear a face covering in communal areas, but can remove it when alone with the resident, as long as both parties are vaccinated. Handwashing or sanitising are required before and after you enter the visiting area. Gifts or items for the use of the person you are visiting are now permitted.
It is usually OK for vaccinated residents to go for a drive with vaccinated visitors; check with staff locally.
Visiting will usually be limited if there is any new outbreak of COVID-19 in a nursing home. These limits should be in place for as short a time as possible. Visiting may be allowed in special situations, at the discretion of the Director of Nursing.
Meeting people in your own home when you are deemed vulnerable
People who are living alone or parenting alone can pair with one other household for support. This is called a ‘support bubble’.
You can visit the home of those in your support bubble and they can visit your home.
No visitors are allowed inside your home except for essential family reasons or where the visitor is in your support bubble.
Fully vaccinated people
Can meet indoors with other fully vaccinated people from no more than 3 households.
You can also meet unvaccinated people from 1 household, as long as no more than 3 households are present.
Do not meet up with anyone who is unvaccinated and at high risk from COVID-19.
If you have to meet with people indoors:
- Everyone should wear a face covering
- Let fresh air circulate as much as possible by opening windows and doors
Meeting people outdoors
Outdoor organised events can take place for up to 15 people.
In your own garden you can meet with:
- Up to 2 other households, or
- 6 people from multiple households, not including children aged 12 or younger