Coronavirus: Ireland puts brakes on easing lockdown amid 'real concern'

The Republic of Ireland has decided not to move forward to Phase 4 of its roadmap for easing lockdown amid concerns about the spread of Covid-19. 'This virus has not changed, indiscriminate in its cruelty and relentless,' said the taoiseach. 'The concern about the rise in cases in recent weeks is very real, the R (reproductive) number has risen above 1 in this country,' Micheál Martin said. 'The international situation represents a growing worry.' Mr Martin said the Irish cabinet had agreed that current public health measures should remain in place and the Republic of Ireland would not progress to Phase 4 of the agreed roadmap.