The Government is expected to face further calls for COVID-19 restrictions to be eased when the Dáil sits this afternoon.

The Taoiseach is expected to make an announcement on the future of the lockdown tomorrow.

Leo Varadkar held his now weekly meeting with leaders of the opposition where calls were made for some of the Coronavirus restrictions to be lifted.

He has said the Government would only ease restrictions when they are told it is “safe to do so” by health officials.

He said officials are considering easing measures in some areas.

Meanwhile, the Chief Medical officer has given his strongest indication yet he won’t be recommending that any of them be lifted.

Only a limited number of TDs will be permitted to be in the Chamber when the Dáil meets due to the strict social distancing guidelines.

It is the last chance for TDs to voice their concerns over the restrictions before tomorrow’s crucial meetings of the National Public Health Emergency Team and the Cabinet.

Ministers have been divided on what approach to take with some calling for restrictions to be eased for the good of the country.

Meanwhile, Independent TD Denis Naughten and outgoing Minister of State John Halligan have both called for restrictions to be eased on a regional basis – with relaxations for areas with lower numbers of cases.

Mr Varadkar is expected to make his announcement sometime tomorrow evening.

With reporting from Seán Defoe