In a letter to the Government tonight, NPHET has recommended moving the entire country to Level 5 - the highest level of restrictions.
Dublin and Donegal are currently under Level 3 restrictions, while the rest of the country is in Level 2. Level 5 is the highest level under the Government's medium-term Covid plan, which was introduced in mid-September to allow for a more nuanced local approach to the pandemic in the coming months.
Following the recommendation by NPHET, a decision will be made by Government about whether or not it wishes to proceed to this most drastic level.
Level 5 is similar to the level of restrictions experienced in March and April - except schools would stay open. People would essentially be urged to stay at home.