It looks like Leaving Certificate students could remain in school, despite them set to shut for the next few weeks.

It is understood Education Minister Norma Foley is recommending exam students should be allowed attend three days a week.

The Government is set to announce tougher public health restrictions later to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Schools are to remain closed for the coming weeks, with exceptions for children with special needs.

The vast majority of construction sites will also close with exceptions for certain projects deemed essential.

Speaking on his way into Cabinet, Higher Education Minister Simon Harris says they do not want schools to stay shut for too long.

"Nobody likes to close schools, it's something that would only be done out of a real abundance of caution and care for the well-being of children and teachers - and for the well-being of community in general.

"If it happens, I hope it's for the shortest time possible."

"What I would say to people is, and we'll update people after Cabinet we've got to be honest and we've got to tell people as much detail and information as we can".