Mandatory mask-wearing in shops, schools and on public transport to be dropped from Monday

It'll be optional to wear a mask in shops, schools and on public transport from Monday.

The cabinet has agreed to drop the legal requirement following advice from NPHET.

PCR testing will no longer be available to people under the age of 55 who are in good health.

While close contacts who don't have symptoms won't have to stay at home.

Tanaiste Leo Varadkar says the public health view is that relaxing the measures in schools is appropriate: