One midlands nightclub will be opening at 7pm this Friday in response.
The Taoiseach has said everyone should now work from home unless it's absolutely necessary.
Micheál Martin has confirmed premises, including bars, restaurants and nightclubs, will have a new closing time of midnight from Thursday.
All household close contacts will have to restrict their movements for five days and do antigen testing under new rules announced tonight.
Micheál Martin confirmed a booster campaign for all over 50s and under 60s with an underlying condition will now be rolled out.
In a State of the Nation address, the Taoiseach says action needs to be taken now to deal with the surge in cases and the impact on the health service:
Meanwhile one midlands nightclub owner is adapting to the restrictions by opening his venue at 7 in the evening.
Dave Power from Coppers in Portlaoise is confident that patrons will readjust to the situation:
Gardaí Release Men Held Over Offaly Fire Bombing
Man Dies In Laois Collision
€114m Westmeath Wastewater Upgrade Complete
Mary O’Rourke Praised As “Hard Working” At Bridge Naming Ceremony
No Mini Budget Planned Despite Pressure Over Fuel And Energy Prices
Africa Day Celebrations Kick Off Across The Midlands
Tánaiste Hails ‘Proof’ Of Help to Buy Scheme Success Across The Midlands
Westmeath Woman Recounts Israeli Interception
Man Charged In Connection With Fatal Offaly House Fire
Mercosur Trade Deal Kicks Into Action Ahead Of European Court Ruling
Westmeath Woman "Deeply Ashamed" Of Spitting Incident
Taoiseach Pays Tribute To Mary O'Rourke At Bridge Dedication
Midlands Walking Club Celebrates 30th Anniversary This Weekend
OPW Minister Wants "Grown Ups" To Resolve Children's Science Museum Fallout
Offaly TD Criticises VAT Disparity For Beauty And Nail Salons
Laois Council Launches Clinics For Vacant Home Grants
Former Children's TV Presenter Revisits Midlands Towns On Nostalgic Journey
€7m Shannon Callows Flood Plans Facing Key Hurdles
Appeal Lodged Against New Lidl Development In Laois
Housing Completions Jump Sharply In Laois In Early 2026