A range of Covid 19 restrictions are due to be unveiled by the government shortly

They include the closure of construction sites and schools for the rest of the month, with an exception for Leaving Certs and an end to the click and collect scheme being operated by retailers. 

It's expected that Leaving cert students will be able to attend school 3 days a week from Monday. 

Party leaders are also due to announce negative covid test requirements for people flying into Ireland - passengers from Britain and South Africa will need negative PCR test for Covid-19 and the Taoiseach is expected to announce an end to the click and collect scheme being operated by retailers - this is to be replaced by delivery . 

It comes as a record 921 covid patients are being treated in hospitals today.  

Speaking on his way into Cabinet, Higher Education Minister Simon Harris says the situation is very serious;