A negative PCR or professionally carried out antigen test will be needed to fly into Ireland from the end of this week.

A negative antigen will be needed 48 hours before arrival into Ireland, while a PCR will have to be taken within 72 hours.

Home antigen tests will not be allowed, meaning the test will need to be carried out professionally.

Approved by Cabinet.

Negative professional antigen will be needed 48 hours before arrival, PCR within 72 hours https://t.co/Zc2nS7qW31

— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) November 30, 2021

The measures will apply to Great Britain but not to travel from Northern Ireland.

The Cabinet has been agreeing updated travel advice amid fears around the new Omicron variant.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin today said everyone needs to reduce their social contacts - both adults and children.

Parents will be asked to ensure their children have only one social activity outside of school a week, while mask-wearing is likely to be advised for all over-9s.

A negative PCR or professionally administered antigen test will be needed to fly into Ireland from Friday.

The Government is likely to bring forward legislation this week to allow for the return of Mandatory Hotel Quarantine if needed.

However there is likely to be a row in the Dáil later over the timing - with opposition parties accusing the Government of trying to curtail debate by rushing through quarantine laws on Thursday.