It is unlikely much will change on May 5 when the current lockdown measures are due to finish.

It is understood Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will make an announcement on Friday afternoon, outlining the easing of restrictions through three phases.

The Government is considering allowing outdoor workers, such as gardeners and those in construction, to return to work as part of Phase 1 after May 5.

Something else being discussed is people over the age of 70 given the go-ahead to exercise outside of their homes once a day.

There is a question mark over whether or not the 2km measures will be expanded by this phase.

Speaking after yesterday evening's press briefing, Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health said a decision on easing lockdown will go "down to the wire".

Dr Holohan said rates of improvement regarding COVID-19 are slowing and if yesterday was the date to lift restrictions he would not be advising to do so.

“Hopefully as the week goes on we will continue to see improvements," he said.

“The trends are encouraging but we need to see further progress. We understand there has been frustration. We want to encourage people to continue to work with us.

“It is down to the wire. I haven’t made my mind up and I am only one voice. We will have a discussion tomorrow and wait as long as possible.”