New Covid close contact rules take effect from Friday.
Close contacts who are boosted and don't have symptoms won't have to restrict movements and will be asked to take antigen tests instead.
A positive antigen now won't require a PCR to confirm the result for people aged under 40.
Anyone who tests positive will have to isolate for seven days regardless of vaccine status.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin says the moves are untested but will allow many people to return to work:
"We have to remain vigilant."
"We have to keep on top of this virus."
"But the decision in close contact represents a balance in terms of the pressures on supply chains."
"In particular on the health service and other essential services, but also the progress we're making in relation to vaccination."
