Donegal moves into Phase Three

Taoiseach Michael Martin announced the measure yesterday evening and said the decision was based on ‘very worrying data’ provided by NPHET.

There were 42 cases of Covid 19 announced in the county yesterday, the second highest behind Dublin. Donegal’s seven day incidence rate is the highest in the country.

The figures for each Local Electoral Area were updated yesterday, up until September 21, and showed that in the Buncrana LEA (South Inishowen) there were 13 cases. There were less than five cases in the Carndonagh LEA (North Inishowen). Both areas recorded less than five on September 14, representing a significant increase for the Buncrana LEA.

The highest numbers of Covid 19 are in the Lifford/Stranorlar area, with 87 confirmed cases in the last two weeks. There were 24 in Letterkenny. There were eight in the Donegal LEA and 22 in Glenties LEA.

Yesterday evening, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the Stranorlar area had an infection rate of 336 per 100k and ‘with these sorts of numbers’ the government ‘clearly had no choice other than to act and act decisively.’

He said there will be additional business supports for those impacted by the restrictions. Unlike Dublin, where ‘wet pubs’ are closed, Donegal’s can stay open with outdoor service only.

Phase three restrictions include visiting limited to a maximum of six people from just one other household, no more than 25 people at weddings and funerals, Masses will move back online, no indoor gatherings, no more than 15 at outdoor gatherings, and the closing of indoor cultural venues.

There will be a range of restrictions at restaurants and pubs that serve food including no indoor dining.

People are asked to work from home and not leave the county, except for work, education or essential reasons. See www.gov.ie.