Passengers arriving into Ireland without a negative coronavirus test will have to isolate in a hotel for two weeks, under plans being discussed by Government.

The Cabinet Sub-Committee on COVID-19 will meet later today to discuss more strict rules on international travel.

Under the plans, those who fail to follow the self-isolation rules could face fines or imprisonment.

Passengers arriving without a negative test will likely have to pay for their own 14-day hotel isolation.

People arriving from Brazil, South Africa or anywhere else where there are concerns about new strains of the virus will face the same rules.

Passengers from anywhere else, who are carrying a negative test, will be expected to isolate wherever they are staying as per current guidelines.

However, the system is likely to be tightened with Gardaí handed powers to fine or imprison people for breaches.

Some exceptions are being looked at for people traveling back to Ireland on compassionate grounds.

Meanwhile, contacts are ongoing with the governments in Belfast and London about an ‘all-island’ or ‘two-island’ quarantine solution; however, the Taoiseach has said those talks remain “very embryonic.”

The sub-committee is also likely to approve extending Level 5 restrictions by four weeks until the end of February.

The re-opening of schools will also be discussed this afternoon with Education Minister Norma Foley briefing government party leaders.

It is unlikely any decision will be taken on schools today.

Reporting from Sean Defoe