In response to the identification of a new strain of COVID-19 in the south-east of England, the Irish Government has announced a ban on all flights arriving into the State from Britain with effect from midnight tonight, Sunday, December 20, 2020.

Flights are being banned for at least 48 hours.

The ban is in place for tomorrow, Monday, December 21, and Tuesday December 22, 2020. The ban will be reviewed by the Irish Government at its Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, December 22, 2020.

A Government statement said that arrangements are being put in place to facilitate the repatriation of Irish residents on short trips to Britain and planning to return in the coming days, as well as international travellers to Ireland who are transiting through Britain.

Passengers affected by this ban should contact their airline.