Statement next week on Covid-19 restrictions - Taoiseach

​The Taoiseach has said a comprehensive and coherent statement will be made next week on the level of Covid-19 restrictions that will apply for the period ahead.

Micheál Martin made the comments to a meeting of the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party, which heard calls from TDs and Senators for a medium-term plan once the over-70s and those with underlying conditions are vaccinated.

---

​A number of TDs also called for an easing of the 5km travel limit, which was described by Mayo Senator Lisa Chambers as "ridiculous".

Some members felt travel should be allowed beyond 10km, or even 20km.

The Taoiseach told the meeting that "progress is fragile". He said a decision on easing Level 5 restrictions has not yet been made and there was a need to avoid speculation.

Mr Martin said most over-70s will have their first vaccine by mid April, and their second dose by mid May.

Earlier, Tánaiste Leo Varadkar it will be Tuesday before the Government makes its decisions regarding restrictions after 5 April, following the National Public Health Emergency Team's meeting on Monday.

READ THE FULL RTE NEWS ARTICLE