There are also new limits on the number of people allowed to attend indoor events. Mask-wearing is now mandatory while not seated in bars and restaurants, and a COVID-19 pass must be shown in order to enter a gym or leisure center.

Venues where indoor cultural, community and sporting events are held can only operate at maximum half capacity, and those attending such events must wear face masks at all times unless eating or drinking.

Cafes and restaurants must adopt strict social distancing measures, including table service only, one meter between tables, and a maximum of six adult customers per table. Customers are also required to wear face masks while moving around.

The Irish government also strongly advises that indoor family gatherings should not exceed four households in total.

The new measures, which will remain in place until Jan. 9, 2022, were designed to reduce social contact during the coming festive period.

The Irish Department of Health on Monday reported almost 3,000 new confirmed cases of COVID-19.

Ireland reported its first case of the Omicron variant at the beginning of this month, but no further cases of this new variant have been detected in the country so far. — Agencies