Tide turning as beaches open again

THE tide is turning on the coronavirus crisis as visits to beaches were allowed yesterday.

Health Minister Simon Harris also gave the green light for the public to go to cemeteries.

But social distancing must be observed if more restrictions can be lifted on June 8.

Mr Harris told RTE Good Morning Ireland: “Beaches are now open and you can take exercise within your 5km as long as you practice social distancing when you get there.

“So a cemetery is obviously an outdoor area so we believed it would be perfectly safe to open cemeteries.

“Obviously I think these are matters for local authorities but again, there needs to be compassion and cop on shown.”

However, while many lockdown restrictions are lifted picnics are still off the menu.

Senior official at the Department of the Taoiseach Liz Canavan laid down the law at the Government’s daily coronavirus briefing.

She said: “While the Government still advises people to stay at home as much as possible, it is permitted to exercise in the outdoors within 5km of your home.

“It is critical in this that you continue to observe social distancing while exercising.

“Outdoor spaces and tourism sites including car parks, beaches and trails will be opened where people can move around freely and where social distancing can be maintained.

“If you are visiting a public recreation amenity, refrain from long stays at the site and do not have picnics. Please do your exercise and then go home.”

Elsewhere, the official also urged people not to be judging others if they choose not to wear facemasks as recommended.