NPHET has recommended the entire country be moved to Level 5 coronavirus restrictions for four weeks.
Sporting institutions around Ireland could see their plans for the immediate future in disarray after the latest recommendations by NPHET.
Level 5 restrictions mean that sport is suspended nationwide and Government guidelines state that only individual training is allowed.
Elsewhere, no matches and events will be allowed to take place. Gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools will also be closed if the recommendations are adopted.
There is no exercise or dance classes allowed too.
Coalition party leaders are meeting with the Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan tomorrow to discuss the recommendation, ahead of an expected full Cabinet meeting to discuss the proposed measures.
NPHET met this evening amid concerns over the growing numbers of coronavirus cases, with nearly 1,000 cases confirmed over the weekend.
Level 5 restrictions
A move to Level 5 would be a significant escalation, as most of the country is currently only on level two restrictions.
It is understood that these recommendations have caught the Government by surprise, and the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Green Party leader will meet with Dr Holohan to discuss it tomorrow.
Aside from the sporting impact, Level 5 is the highest level of restrictions under the Government’s Living with COVID plan.
It would mean a range of restrictions - including the closure of all but essential retail; restaurants and pubs being limited to takeaway and delivery only; a limit of ten mourners at funerals; and no outdoor gatherings.
No household visits would be allowed. People would be asked to stay at home wherever possible and exercise within 5km of their home.
All but essential workers would be told to work from home.
However, schools and childcare facilities would remain open.
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