The Government has said the travel from the UK is being "monitored very closely" after a new strain of Covid-19 was identified in England.
The
Irish Independent reports that Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan feels that "all non-essential travel in and out of the country, including from the UK, should be postponed" after a new strain of Covid-19 was identified in south-east England. Even though air travel is expected to be lower this year than in previous festive periods, significant numbers of Irish people living in the UK are expected to make their way home for Christmas over the coming days.
Yesterday, London was moved to tier 3 of UK Covid-19 regulations, meaning that social gatherings with family or friends are limited to outdoor public places and within support bubbles. Pubs and restaurants must also close in the English capital, except for takeaway and delivery services. Deputy CMO Ronan Glynn has said that it's "too early to say" the new strain has made its way to Ireland.
Air travel into Ireland during Christmas expected to be down 90% from last year and ferry passenger numbers are expected to decrease by 60%.
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