The Taoiseach has announced a phased easing of public health restrictions, starting from April 12.

According to Micheál Martin, Ireland is now "in the final stretch of this terrible journey" and he called on people to "get through this final phase together".

From April 12, all pupils will return to school, people will be allowed to travel within their county or within 20km of their home if they are crossing county boundaries, and all residential construction can restart.

From April 19, adult inter-county GAA training can resume, as well as training by certain high performing athletes, as approved by Sport Ireland.

From April 26, subject to the prevailing public health situation, children can resume outdoor non-contact training, outdoor sports facilities can reopen, such as golf courses and tennis courts, and outdoor visitor attractions, such as zoos, can reopen.

The maximum attendance at funerals will also increase to 25 from this date.

From May 4, again subject to the prevailing public health situation, all construction activity will reopen, personal services will recommence on a staggered basis, non-essential retail will begin a phased reopening, starting with the resumption of click and collect, and museums, galleries and libraries will reopen.

Religious services will also recommence from this date on a staggered basis.

Mr Martin highlighted the "remarkable impact" the vaccines are having on COVID-19.

"They are transformative and they are our way out. The only thing holding us back is supply and this will increase in April, May and June," he insisted.

He said that by mid-to-late May, all over-70s will be fully vaccinated and six million doses will have been administered by the end of July.

He added that Easter is normally a time of reflection and renewal and "we should take time this Easter to look forward with hope".

For more information on the easing of restrictions from April 12, click here.