The Department of Health has announced 16 more coronavirus related deaths and 129 new confirmed cases.

It brings the death toll in Ireland to 1,518 and the total number of cases to 23,956.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet has signed off on plans to begin the first phase of the roadmap for easing coronavirus restrictions next week.

From Monday, up to four people can meet outdoors, provided they follow social distancing guidelines.

Some public sports areas like tennis courts and golf courses have also been given the green light – but only for people who live within the 5km radius.

Meanwhile, hardware and DIY stores can reopen along with construction sites; however, homeware stores will have to remain shut.

A girl sitting on a bench watching the waves at the pier at Howth after people were allowed to travel 5km from their homes, 03-05-2020. Image: Leon Farrell/RollingNews

Dr Holohan said that as restrictions are eased, “the core message remains the same.”

“Stay at home where possible and follow public health behaviours to limit the spread – hand washing, respiratory etiquette and physical distancing.

“I urge everyone to remember how easily this virus can spread and how quickly we could lose the progress that the country has worked so hard to achieve.”

As of Wednesday May 13th, more than 31% (7,427) of the country’s confirmed cases were associated with healthcare professionals and 57% were women.

Some 13% (3,062) were hospitalised with their symptoms and 387 had been admitted to intensive care.

Dublin still accounts for 49% of the country’s cases at 11,557, followed by Kildare with 6% (1,352) and Cork with 5% (1,256).

Dr Siobhan Ni Bhriain, Consultant Psychiatrist and HSE Integrated Care Lead, said: “These past weeks have been particularly difficult for those who have been cocooning from family, friends and society.

“Today, I hope new measures will bring some relief to this group and that they know we as a society are supporting them wherever possible, including by adopting safe behaviours in physical distancing, hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.”

A woman wearing a face mask on Dublin's O'Connell Street this morning, 06-04-2020. Image: Leah Farrell/RollingNews

The Government is also advising everyone over the age of 13 to wear face coverings when it is difficult to practice proper social distancing.

There is no obligation to wear them and Health Minister Simon Harris warned that anyone not wearing a mask should not be criticised or judged.