The re-opening of the country will be led by data, not dates, according to the Taoiseach.

Under the Government's roadmap for reopening the country, Level 5 restrictions have been extended until at least April 5th with a review before Easter.

Schools will re-open on a phased basis next week with childcare also re-opening in March.

Leaving cert students will return to school next Monday, while at primary school level, children from junior infants up to second class will also return on Monday.

All other primary school students and 5th year at second-level will return 2 weeks later on 15th March, and remaining secondary school students on 12th April, after the Easter break.

But there will be no other changes before April.