UP to three households are expected to be allowed to meet this Christmas.
The Irish Government is currently considering a number of options in relation to the festive season and Covid-19 restrictions.
While Christmas is unlikely to be 'normal' this year, there's hope for many families that, at the very least, a gathering of sorts will be possible.
It's understood that towards the end of the month in the run up to Christmas, the Government will ease regulations on household mixing, to allow for up three to gather indoors.
Domestic travel restrictions are also expected to be lifted or eased at the same time to allow families to meet up with one another.
Ireland is set to exit Level Five restrictions on December 1, dropping down to Level Three.
Restrictions on travel and indoor gatherings are tight under Level Three, but the Government says it plans to be 'flexible' with the rules around the Christmas period.
Due to this though, "enhanced" restrictions could be implemented for a short period in the New Year, to make up for what is likely to be a relaxed festive season in terms of adhering to public health guidelines.
Meanwhile, the Government is meeting with the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) today to finalise details of Ireland's exit from full lockdown next week.
It's understood that the retail sector will be swung back open, but pubs and restaurants may have to wait a while before being reopened to the public.
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