Businesses and the wider communities in Kildare, Laois and Offaly are awaiting with trepidation a decision expected tomorrow on whether local restrictions will be lifted or extended.
While the case numbers have fallen in Laois and Offaly since the "mini lockdown" was imposed a fortnight ago, they have remained stubbornly high in Kildare.
There are fears that Co Kildare will not be given any relief from the current restrictions. Movement in and out of the counties has been restricted over the last two weeks and some outlets such as pubs, restaurant and coffee shops have been closed, apart from takeaway and limited outdoor business.