A cabinet meeting may happen on Friday of this week to make a call on the further easing of restrictions, it is understood.
The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) planned to meet on Thursday and has been asked by the government to consider easing restrictions on hospitality and working from home.
Although it had been expected that Cabinet would not make a decision on easing restrictions until next week, government sources have been said that it all depends on what NPHET offers and what government wants to do, stating that a Friday Cabinet meeting is “not out of the question”.
While it’s not confirmed, senior sources said it’s very possible there will be a meeting on Friday.
Politicians return to work in Leinster House this week after their Christmas break, with ministers expected to hold their regular Cabinet meeting tomorrow.
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said that, last week businesses would be given plenty of notice this time about the forthcoming changes to the rules.
Nevertheless, an early easing of restrictions before the end of the month was not being ruled out as of last night.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said last week that he is hopeful that advice from NPHET will be that restrictions can be eased at the end of January.
Government will be looking at the possible easing of restrictions for hospitality, allowing cultural events and hospitality sectors to trade beyond 8pm, Martin said.