Fine Gael's Peter Burke says the retail industry does not need to fear a return to extreme measures.
A midlands junior minister says he's "confident" there won't be a return to extreme covid restrictions in the new year.
Fine Gael's Peter Burke believes we can avoid the worst if people are vigilant over Christmas.
The Omicron variant now accounts for 27 per cent of all new Covid cases, according to the Health Minister.
It's a significant jump from last week when the variant made up just 1 per cent of infections.
NPHET is meeting this evening to discuss whether any new restrictions are needed over Christmas to combat the spread of the virus.
But the Longford-Westmeath TD says the retail industry doesn't need to be worried about a lockdown in January:
Ex Westmeath Garda Avoids Jail After Admitting Coercive Control Of Wife
Midlands 103 Wins Big At National Radio Awards
Over 100 Jobs Created In Laois Following MyPay Contract
New Laois Domestic Violence Refuge Moves To Design Stage
Laois Hurlers To Receive Civic Honour Following Joe McDonagh Cup Success
TUS Research Centre Launches New Breastfeeding Support Toolkit
Dentists Set For Industrial Action This Month
Offaly TD Backs Tighter Citizenship Requirements