From today, the public are being advised to use their own judgement on whether or not to wear masks in public settings.
Under updated guidance, it is no longer legally necessary to wear a face covering on public transport, in shops or schools.
Some have been waiting for this day. others are willing to wait longer.
But for the first time since August 2020, shoppers here on Dublin’s Grafton Street can choose to mask up or go without.
Photo: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ieRetail Workers
Duncan Graham from Retail Excellence Ireland says for workers, it’s been particularly tough:
"Well we all know if you've been wearing a mask for three to four hours it does start to get very uncomfortable."
"I think retail workers on the whole will be looking forward to it."
Meanwhile staggered breaks and pods have been scrapped in schools from today.
These kids in Holy Child Boys School in Dublin can’t wait to go mask-free in the classroom:
One said, "I absolutely hate face masks!"
Also from today, asymptomatic close contacts are no longer required to test, self isolate or restrict their movements.
That is unless they work in healthcare.
