Disconnections of electricity and gas supplies have been put off until April 19th.

The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) announced the move on Friday after consultation with several providers.

The CRU says it is in "constant contact" with Eirgird, Gas Networks Ireland and Irish Water to monitor the implementation of their continuity plans.

It says this is to ensure energy and water supplies remain uninterrupted during the coronavirus pandemic.

The CRU  is also reminding customers of measures in place to assist pre-payment meter customers to make sure they remain connected.

Emergency credit levels for all gas prepayment customers are also being increased from €10 to €100.

As gas credit cannot be bought online, this measure will allow customers to remain connected for a period - even if they cannot continue to purchase credit as regularly as usual.

CRU chairperson Aoife MacEvilly said: "The CRU will continue to monitor the situation in relation to the Government measures to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic and take any necessary steps under our regulatory powers to ensure continuity of energy supply and to protect customers, particularly vulnerable customers."