Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021
1655. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Health when clarity will be provided to couples planning weddings in May 2021 as to their guest numbers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18577/21]
View answer1663. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health his plans to extend up to 25 the number of persons who can attend weddings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18592/21]
View answer1782. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health the date on which a minimum of 25 persons will be allowed to attend weddings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18960/21]
View answer1873. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Health his plans for weddings under the phased easing of restrictions that have recently been announced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19195/21]
View answer1912. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Health when restrictions will be lifted for weddings; and the numbers that will be allowed. [19280/21]
View answer1921. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health if he will respond to correspondence and proposals by a person (details supplied) in relation to weddings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19298/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1655, 1663, 1782, 1873, 1912 and 1921 together.
Level 5 restrictive measures currently remain in place. Any measures introduced at any level of the Plan are aimed at limiting the spread and damage of COVID-19 and are necessary to protect our key priorities of supporting and maintaining health and social care services, keeping education and childcare services open and protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities.
The Government announced a slight easing of restrictions from 12 April in recognition of the significant impact that the extended period of Level 5 restrictions is having on people. The focus of this easing of measures is on enabling more outdoor activities in order to improve the health and wellbeing of society. The situation will be subject to ongoing review taking account of the evolving epidemiological situation, the impact of the reopening of priority services, and available evidence in relation to vaccine deployment, uptake and effectiveness. The NPHET and the Government will consider the position again at the end of this month and it is anticipated that a roadmap for the further easing of measures over the coming months will be agreed, including in relation to weddings.
Significant progress has been made on suppressing the virus due to the huge effort of our citizens. By working together, we have saved lives and limited the impact of the disease on society in Ireland. We all must continue to do everything possible to avoid the virus spreading.
The Government's guidelines for weddings at all levels of the Framework are available at: https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/
