The FAI has confirmed that all football under its jurisdiction will cease until March 29 as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. 

It means a halt has been placed on SSE Airtricity League games, rather than forcing them behind closed doors.

The latter measure may have hit clubs harder in the pocket.

The FAI has also cancelled Friday's planned Republic of Ireland squad announcement by Mick McCarthy for the Euro 2020 playoff with Slovakia.

The fate of that game in Bratislava is likely to be determined by a video conference on Tuesday involving all of UEFA's stakeholders.

Slovakia have already requested that March 26 game be postponed as a result of severe travel restrictions in and out of that territory.

On the cessation of domestic activities, the FAI say:

The FAI made this decision after a meeting in Dublin today with Government, the Department of Health and stakeholders from other national sporting bodies.

The decision has been taken in light of the growing threat posed by the COVID-19 outbreak and in the best interests of our players, coaches, volunteers, supporters and staff. This decision will be monitored on an ongoing basis.

The FAI again met with representatives from the National League Executive Committee and the Professional Footballer’s Association of Ireland today, and continues to work with both bodies to help our clubs and players through this difficult time.

The FAI remains in communication with the Department of Health and UEFA on COVID-19 and will continue to follow all government guidelines.