We can now get haircuts and head to other counties as restrictions ease

Today marks a significant relaxing of restrictions that have been in place since the start of the year, to tackle the spread of COVID-19.

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We can now travel between counties and have visitors in our gardens as restrictions have eased for the first time in 2021.

Personal services have reopened, while non-essential retail can offer click and collect or shopping by appointment.

Religious services have returned and museums, galleries and libraries have also reopened.

What changes from today? All the key points in 50 seconds ?⏱️

?️Click & Collect
✂️Hairdressers & Barbers
?️Cultural attractions
?Sports for adults in pods of 15
?️Intercounty travel
?Outdoor gatherings of 15

Full Covid-19 update? https://t.co/dpBOmLqHS1 #StaySafe pic.twitter.com/GGIG86vjzX

— MerrionStreet.ie #StaySafe #HoldFirm (@merrionstreet) May 10, 2021

There has been a broad welcome for the easing of restrictions with many business owners delighted to be able to open their doors once again.

Joanne Eksteen, who owns Bella Mia beauty salon in Mullingar in Westmeath, has said it's a great day:

"It's been so exciting all week seeing the bookings come in.  We miss and love what we do so much, so it's just brilliant to finally be back."

Penneys is among the retailers offering a shopping by appointment service.

Jess from Sligo booked an appointment for 9.00am and has told iRadio she was thrilled to be able to head into the store:

"Oh it was beautiful and empty, so empty!  I just got a few socks, jumpers and leggings, and all the good stuff."

Vaccine rollout

Also today, people over the age of 50 can get their COVID-19 vaccine.

The rollout is being ramped up this week, less than a week after the online portal opened for that age cohort.

The latest vaccination figures show 28,000 doses were administered on Saturday with more than 223,000 in that week so far.