Face coverings are mandatory in shops and indoor settings from today

Confirmed cases of Covid-19 increased substantially over the weekend.

People will face fines of up to €2,500 or six months in jail if they don't comply with new face covering regulations that come into effect from today. Face coverings are now mandatory in shops, shopping centres and other indoor settings. Over the weekend the confirmed Covid-19 cases increased substantially with significant outbreaks in Kildare, Laois and Offaly. As well as all shops and shopping centres, these regulations also apply to libraries, cinemas, nail bars, hair dressers, dry cleaners, tattooists and travel agents. There are some circumstances for health, age or equality reasons where face coverings are not necessary and the Government are imploring people not to judge or criticise those who are unable to wear one. This morning, Irish businesses have already tweeted about the new regulations:

Good morning! ?

As of today face coverings are compulsory in our stores. ? List of stores and opening times ? https://t.co/gHw54w2hKm pic.twitter.com/exo22HeAMX — O'Neills (@ONeills1918) August 10, 2020

As well as face coverings people are being advised to still do the important things necessary to prevent the spread of the virus.