The Taoiseach is reassuring people that takeaways and food shops will remain open through the COVID-19 lockdown.

Leo Varadkar said there is no need to stockpile or panic buy food now that the lockdown is in place.

Meanwhile, the Government is also reassuring the public that the 2km restriction does not apply to people going to buy food or essential items.

Mr Varadkar announced last night that the country would go into lockdown until Easter Sunday at the earliest in response to COVID-19.

As part of the restrictions, people who are going out to exercise are not allowed any further than 2km from their homes.

However, if you are heading to the shop, the pharmacy or the doctor you are allowed to travel further.

A Government spokesperson said there is no need to panic buy or stockpile food, adding “our supply chains are working well and will continue to do so.”

In a tweet, Leo Varadkar said food stores and takeaways will remain open during the crisis.

No need to do all shopping or stockpile this morning. Food stores and takeaways staying open in the emergency. The 2km is about exercising locally. You can go beyond the 2km to buy food and medicines. The supplies are good. We all have a part to play in rising to this challenge

— Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) March 28, 2020

The Government has also banned people from going to work unless their job is deemed essential and can’t be done from the home.

Mr Varadkar is due to announce the list of services that have been deemed essential this afternoon.