2020 in Ireland

Events during the year 2020 in Ireland. As in most of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic dominated events in Ireland during this year.

Incumbents

File:Michael D. Higgins 2006.jpg Michael D. Higgins]]

President: Michael D. Higgins
Taoiseach:
Leo Varadkar (FG) (until 27 June 2020)
Micheál Martin (FF) (from 27 June 2020)
Tánaiste:
Simon Coveney (FG) (until 27 June 2020)
Leo Varadkar (FG) (from 27 June 2020)
Minister for Finance: Paschal Donohoe (FG)
Chief Justice: Frank Clarke
Dáil:
32nd (until 14 January 2020)
33rd (from 20 February 2020)
Seanad:
25th (until 27 March 2020)
26th (from 27 June 2020)

Events

= January =

1 January – With odds of a million to one, Annmarie Byrne-Ryan gave birth to identical triplets at the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/health/miracle-new-year-delivery-as-identical-triplets-born-in-dublin-38828960.html Miracle New Year delivery as identical triplets born in Dublin] Irish Independent, 2020-01-02.
2 January – Tánaiste Simon Coveney and NI Secretary Julian Smith held meetings with the five main Stormont parties in an effort to restore devolved government.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/tanaiste-on-restoration-of-power-sharing-in-stormont-were-running-out-of-time-973191.html Tánaiste on restoration of power-sharing in Stormont: 'We’re running out of time'] Irish Examiner, 2020-01-02.
3 January – It was revealed that the FAI left the Gardaí almost €360,000 out of pocket over its failure to pay any money for policing operations around major soccer matches.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/crisis-hit-fai-owes-gardai-360000-for-policing-major-matches-973468.html Crisis-hit FAI owes Gardaí €360,000 for policing major matches] Irish Examiner, 2020-01-03.
4 January – Nursing Unions called for an emergency meeting with the HSE as overcrowding reached crisis levels at Cork's two biggest hospitals.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/emergency-talks-tomorrow-as-overcrowding-in-two-cork-hospitals-reaches-crisis-levels-973597.html Emergency talks tomorrow as overcrowding in two Cork hospitals reaches crisis levels] Irish Examiner, 2020-01-04.
5 January – One man was killed and a second man remained missing after a trawler sank off the coast of Hook Head overnight.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/father-of-four-who-died-in-trawler-tragedy-named-locally-as-search-for-second-fisherman-to-resume-tomorrow-38835042.html Father-of-four who died in trawler tragedy named locally as search for second fisherman to resume tomorrow] Irish Independent, 2020-01-05.
6 January – Gardaí began searching for a man following the attempted abduction of a woman in her 60s in Dublin.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0106/1104665-dublin-abduction/ Manhunt under way after woman escapes attempted abduction in Dublin] RTÉ News, 2020-01-06.
8 January – Gardaí arrested two men after three people were taken hostage when a bus was hijacked at Dublin Airport in the early hours of the morning.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/two-hour-rampage-sparked-after-bus-with-three-tourists-on-board-hijacked-at-dublin-airport-38844009.html Two-hour rampage sparked after bus with three tourists on board hijacked at Dublin Airport] Irish Independent, 2020-01-08.
9 January – Tánaiste Simon Coveney and Northern Secretary Julian Smith published their proposals on restoring power-sharing at Stormont and urged all parties to support the plan.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ulster/2020/0109/1105256-stormont-talks/ NI proposals 'provide basis' for agreement – Coveney] RTÉ News, 2020-01-09.
13 January – There were widespread power cuts, downed trees and localised flooding across the country due to Storm Brendan.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0113/1106021-storm-brendan-weather/ Power cuts and trees down as Storm Brendan passes] RTÉ News, 2020-01-13.
14 January – Taoiseach Leo Varadkar called a general election for Saturday 8 February.[https://www.thejournal.ie/32nd-dail-dissolved-4965429-Jan2020/ The 32nd Dáil has been dissolved by President Michael D Higgins] The Journal, 2020-01-14.
15 January
Aer Lingus launched its new uniform which included a trousers option for female crew for the first time.[https://www.independent.ie/life/travel/travel-news/first-look-aer-lingus-reveals-new-trousers-option-for-female-cabin-crew-38863661.html First Look: Aer Lingus reveals new trousers option for female cabin crew] Irish Independent, 2020-01-15.
Gardaí confirmed that the dismembered body parts found in Dublin two days earlier were the remains of missing 17-year-old Keane Mulready-Woods.[https://www.irishpost.com/news/reports-suggest-teenager-whose-body-parts-found-dublin-adducted-tortured-death-177396 Reports suggest teenager whose body parts were found in Dublin was abducted and tortured before his death] Irish Post, 2020-01-16.
A man was left in a serious condition in hospital after the tent he was sleeping in was removed from the banks of the Grand Canal by an industrial vehicle.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0115/1107513-dublin-homeless/ Homeless man in serious condition after tent removed by industrial vehicle] RTÉ News, 2020-01-15.
16 January – There were major traffic delays along the M50 and the Port Tunnel due to a convoy of tractors as part of a farmers' protest.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/major-traffic-delays-on-m50-and-port-tunnel-as-farmers-move-protest-out-of-dublin-city-38868411.html Major traffic delays on M50 and Port Tunnel as farmers move protest out of Dublin city] Irish Independent, 2020-01-16.
17 January – Sinn Féin councillor Paddy Holohan was suspended from the party after he made controversial remarks regarding women and the Taoiseach's heritage.[https://www.rte.ie/news/campaign-daily/2020/0117/1108126-paddy-holohan/ Paddy Holohan suspended from Sinn Féin over podcast comments] RTÉ News, 2020-01-17.
18 January – Taoiseach Leo Varadkar insisted Ireland was a "safe" country following the murder of a teenager and a number of violent crimes in recent days.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/taoiseach-insists-ireland-is-a-safe-country-despite-week-of-violent-crime-976223.html Taoiseach insists Ireland is a ‘safe’ country despite week of violent crime] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200118181056/https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/taoiseach-insists-ireland-is-a-safe-country-despite-week-of-violent-crime-976223.html |date=18 January 2020 }} Irish Examiner, 2020-01-18.
20 January – Fianna Fáil asked the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) to investigate an "abuse" of state events by Fine Gael during the election campaign.[https://www.rte.ie/news/election-2020/2020/0120/1108518-election-campaign/ Fianna Fáil accuses Fine Gael of 'abuse' of state event during campaign] RTÉ News, 2020-01-20.
23 January
James Joyce's last living descendant, his grandson Stephen Joyce, died in France. The event was marked by a public statement of sympathy by President Higgins.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0124/1110697-james-joyce-grandson/ Grandson of James Joyce dies in France aged 87] RTÉ News, 2020-01-24.[https://president.ie/en/media-library/news-releases/statement-on-the-death-of-stephen-joyce Statement on the death of Stephen Joyce] Áras an Úachtaráin, 2020-01-24.
Former Republic of Ireland striker Niall Quinn was appointed interim deputy chief executive of the Football Association of Ireland.[https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/fai-announce-niall-quinn-as-interim-deputy-ceo-with-wide-ranging-remit-for-irish-soccer-38889387.html FAI announce Niall Quinn as interim deputy CEO with wide-ranging remit for Irish soccer] Irish Independent, 2020-01-23.
24 January – Gardaí began an investigation after the bodies of three children were discovered at a house in Newcastle in West Dublin.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0124/1110750-dublin-house/ Bodies of three children found at Dublin home] RTÉ News, 2020-01-24.
26 January – Cyclists held a protest along Dublin's Quays to highlight the delays in developing the Liffey Cycle Route.[https://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2020/0126/1111027-cyclist-protest-dublin/ Cyclists protest over delays to Liffey Cycle Route development] RTÉ News, 2020-01-26.
27 January – A married couple were sentenced to five-and-a-half years and four years and nine months for the female genital mutilation of their then 21-month-old daughter.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/couple-jailed-for-the-female-genital-mutilation-of-their-one-year-old-daughter-38898742.html Couple jailed for the female genital mutilation of their one-year-old daughter] Irish Independent, 2020-01-27.
29 January – The mother of the three children found dead at their home in Newcastle, West Dublin, appeared in court charged with their murder.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/mother-deirdre-morley-charged-with-murdering-her-three-children-978524.html Mother Deirdre Morley charged with murdering her three children] Breaking News, 2020-01-29.
30 January – The Government promised to double its funding and give the Football Association of Ireland an interest free loan of €2.5 million annually for the next three years.[https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/0130/1111998-fai-funding-doubled-as-part-of-robust-refinancing-deal/ FAI funding doubled as part of refinancing deal] RTÉ News, 2020-01-30.

= February =

1 February – The minimum wage officially increased to €10.10 per hour.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/minimum-wage-increases-30c-from-today-979140.html Minimum wage increases 30c from today] Irish Examiner, 2020-02-01.
3 February – It was announced that the election of candidates will not proceed in the Tipperary constituency due to the death of independent candidate Marese Skehan.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/no-vote-in-tipperary-this-weekend-after-death-of-general-election-candidate-979568.html No vote in Tipperary this weekend after death of General Election candidate] Breaking News, 2020-02-03.
4 February – Many second-level schools were closed due to a strike by members of the Teachers' Union of Ireland over unequal pay.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/hundreds-of-secondary-schools-remain-shut-as-tui-continue-with-last-resort-strike-979685.html Hundreds of secondary schools remain shut as TUI continue with 'last resort' strike] Breaking News, 2020-02-04.
5 February – Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government Eoghan Murphy signed a special order to allow the general election vote take place in Tipperary following the death of one of the candidates.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/election-2020/eoghan-murphy-signs-order-for-tipperary-vote-to-go-ahead-on-saturday-38931352.html Eoghan Murphy signs order for Tipperary vote to go ahead on Saturday] Irish Independent, 2020-02-05.
6 February – An investigation began into an attack on a memorial wall in Glasnevin Cemetery, which commemorates victims of the revolutionary era.[https://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2020/0206/1113549-glasnevin-cemetery/ Memorial wall at Glasnevin Cemetery damaged in attack] RTÉ News, 2020-02-06.
7 February – Hundreds of school children took to the streets to highlight what they describe as a lack of inaction against climate change.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/keeping-climate-in-voters-minds-hundreds-take-to-the-streets-in-pre-election-strike-980454.html ‘Keeping climate in voter’s minds’: Hundreds take to the streets in pre-election strike] Irish Examiner, 2020-02-07.
8 February – The general election took place with a 62.9% turnout.
9 February – Galway-born Eimear Noone became the first female conductor of an Academy Awards ceremony.[https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/2020/0210/1114360-eimear-noone/ Galway conductor Eimear Noone praised as Oscar history made] RTÉ News, 2020-02-09.
10 February – Fianna Fáil emerged as the biggest party in the 33rd Dáil by just one seat after counting of ballots concluded in the general election.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/fianna-fail-edges-sinn-fein-in-race-to-win-most-dail-seats-981012.html Fianna Fáil edges Sinn Féin in race to win most Dáil seats] Breaking News, 2020-02-10.
12 February – Brendan Howlin stepped down as leader of the Labour Party while also announcing that the party would not formally be part of the next government.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/it-has-been-an-honour-brendan-howlin-resigns-as-labour-leader-981360.html 'It has been an honour': Brendan Howlin resigns as Labour leader] Breaking News, 2020-02-12.
13 February – The Fianna Fáil parliamentary party agreed not to enter into talks with Sinn Féin about government formation.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/election-2020/fianna-fail-tds-to-seek-coalition-that-excludes-sinn-fein-38953993.html Fianna Fáil TDs to seek coalition that excludes Sinn Féin] Irish Independent, 2020-02-13.
14 February – The new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Brandon Lewis said that there will be no border down the Irish Sea between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0214/1115361-brandon-lewis/ UK Govt will not have a border in the Irish Sea – Lewis] RTÉ News, 2020-02-14.
15 February – The Citizens' Assembly on Gender Equality held its first hearings in Malahide.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0215/1115491-citizens-assembly/ Citizens' Assembly on gender equality begins formal hearings] RTÉ News, 2020-02-15.
16 February – Thousands of homes, farms and businesses were without power as a result of Storm Dennis, which brought strong winds to parts of the south and west coasts.[https://www.rte.ie/news/weather/2020/0216/1115593-weather/ 8,000 without power as Storm Dennis brings 120km/h gusts] RTÉ News, 2020-02-16.
17 February – Over 900 new speed zones came into effect across the country with cameras operating in areas that have a history of speed-related collisions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0217/1115761-new-speed-cameras/ Over 900 new speed camera zones revealed] RTÉ News, 2020-02-17.
18 February
Two Irish citizens, who were on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship, tested positive for coronavirus according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0218/1116033-ireland-coronavirus/ Two Irish citizens on Diamond Princess cruise ship test positive for coronavirus] RTÉ News, 2020-02-18.
Alan Kelly and Aodhán Ó Ríordáin were both nominated to contest the Labour Party leadership election.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/alan-kelly-and-aodh%C3%A1n-%C3%B3-r%C3%ADord%C3%A1in-who-are-the-labour-leader-contenders-1.4177857 Alan Kelly and Aodhán Ó Ríordáin: Who are the Labour leader contenders?] Irish Times, 2020-02-18.
19 February – The Jewish Representative Council of Ireland said it was "disappointing" that Sinn Féin had yet to condemn "offensive comments" by TD Réada Cronin.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/jewish-council-dismayed-at-sinn-f%C3%A9in-td-s-unacceptable-tweets-1.4178440 Jewish council dismayed at Sinn Féin TD’s ‘unacceptable’ tweets] Irish Times, 2020-02-19.
20 February
The first convening of the 33rd Dáil took place at Leinster House.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/33rd-d%C3%A1il-to-meet-for-first-time-since-election-1.4179455?mode=sample&auth-failed=1&pw-origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.irishtimes.com%2Fnews%2Fpolitics%2F33rd-d%25C3%25A1il-to-meet-for-first-time-since-election-1.4179455 33rd Dáil to meet for first time since election] Irish Times, 2020-02-20.
Fianna Fáil's Seán Ó Fearghaíl was re-elected as Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0220/1116469-ireland-politics/ Seán Ó Fearghaíl re-elected as Ceann Comhairle] RTÉ News, 2020-02-20.
After failing to win enough support to be re-appointed, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar travelled to Áras an Uachtaráin to offer his resignation to President Higgins.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0220/1116469-ireland-politics/ McDonald gets most votes but no Taoiseach elected] RTÉ News, 2020-02-20.
21 February – Commissioner Drew Harris said that the Gardaí do not differ from the view of the PSNI that a provisional army council oversees both Sinn Féin and the IRA.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0221/1116746-garda-commissioner-sinn-fein/ McDonald says IRA has 'gone away' in response to Harris comments] RTÉ News, 2020-02-21.
24 February – Between 800 and 1,000 people attended a meeting in Cork to rally public support for Sinn Féin's efforts to get into government.[https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/hundreds-attend-sinn-fein-meeting-in-cork-to-rally-support-for-government-efforts-38985376.html Hundreds attend Sinn Fein meeting in Cork to rally support for government efforts] Irish Independent, 2020-02-24.
25 February – Gardaí began questioning a mother of three over the fatal stabbing of a man in a suspected attack over a car parking space in Kingswood, Dublin.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/gardai-examine-cctv-over-parking-space-murder-984035.html Gardaí examine CCTV over ‘parking space’ murder] Breaking News, 2020-02-25.
26 February
The Dáil Business Committee agreed that the Dáil would not vote on the position of Taoiseach when it meets for a second time next week.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/dail-ditches-next-weeks-vote-for-new-taoiseach-984242.html Dáil ditches next week's vote for new Taoiseach] Irish Examiner, 2020-02-26.
The Irish Rugby Football Union confirmed that the Ireland-Italy Six Nations match had been postponed given the need to protect public health in relation to the coronavirus.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0226/1117750-coronavirus-irfu/ Ireland v Italy games called off due to virus concerns] RTÉ News, 2020-02-26.
27 February – The first confirmed case of coronavirus in Northern Ireland reportedly arrived through Dublin Airport from northern Italy.[https://www.rte.ie/news/health/2020/0227/1117991-ireland-coronavirus/ NI coronavirus case had travelled through Dublin] RTÉ News, 2020-02-27.
28 February – The Department of Health said that everyone who had been in close contact with a woman diagnosed with coronavirus had been traced and notified.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0228/1118104-coronavirus-ireland/ All those in close contact with COVID-19 patient 'notified'] RTÉ News, 2020-02-28.
29 February
A status red wind warning for Clare and Galway was issued by Met Éireann due to the effects of Storm Jorge.[https://www.thejournal.ie/status-red-and-orange-storm-jorge-5026608-Feb2020/ Storm Jorge: Status Red now in effect in Clare and Galway as 130 km/h gusts hit coast] The Journal, 2020-02-29.
The first case of coronavirus was confirmed in the Republic of Ireland.{{cite news|url=https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0229/1119357-coronavirus-ireland/ |title=First case of coronavirus confirmed in Republic |publisher=Rte.ie |date=29 February 2020 |accessdate=29 February 2020}}

= March =

1 March
A secondary school in the east of the country was forced to close for 14 days as a precautionary measure following the first case of coronavirus in the Republic.{{cite news|first=Samantha |last=Libreri |url=https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0301/1119467-coronavirus-ireland/ |title=School to close for 14 days as precaution over virus |publisher=Rte.ie |date=1 March 2020 |accessdate=1 March 2020}}
It was announced that a second Dáil vote for Taoiseach would go ahead on 5 March as parties continued to meet in an attempt to form a government.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/go-ahead-for-second-vote-for-taoiseach-985084.html Go-ahead for second vote for Taoiseach] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-01.
2 March
The majority of Google's 8,000 staff and contractors in Ireland were told to work from home after a member of staff reported flu-like symptoms.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/coronavirus-thousands-of-google-staff-in-dublin-told-to-work-from-home-due-to-virus-scare-39007520.html Coronavirus: Thousands of Google staff in Dublin told to work from home due to virus scare] Irish Independent, 2020-03-02.
Tourism authorities announce that one of the largest annual events, the 2020 Dublin St Patricks Day Parade, is cancelled.{{cite news |title=St Patricks Day Parades in Dublin and Cork cancelled |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/st-patrick-s-day-parades-in-dublin-and-cork-cancelled-1.286369 |accessdate=6 April 2020 |newspaper=The Irish Times}}
3 March
Dublin-based Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara claimed the Pritzker Prize, architecture's most prestigious award.[https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2020/mar/03/grafton-architects-win-pritzker-prize Women win Pritzker prize, architecture's highest honour] The Guardian, 2020-03-03.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived at Dublin Airport for a three-day official visit.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/duke-and-duchess-of-cambridge-meet-president-higgins-and-taoiseach-in-dublin-39009982.html Duke and Duchess of Cambridge meet President Higgins and Taoiseach in Dublin] Irish Independent, 2020-03-03.
A second case of coronavirus was confirmed involving a female in the east of the country who travelled from northern Italy.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/second-case-of-coronavirus-confirmed-in-ireland-not-connected-to-school-shutdown-39012211.html Second case of coronavirus confirmed in Ireland - not connected to school shutdown] Irish Independent, 2020-03-03.
4 March – Four more cases of coronavirus were confirmed in the west of Ireland, bringing the total number of cases in the country to six.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/four-new-coronavirus-cases-confirmed-in-west-of-ireland-985841.html Four new coronavirus cases confirmed in west of Ireland] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-04
5 March
The second meeting of the 33rd Dáil took place, however, there was no vote for Taoiseach.[https://www.thejournal.ie/day-two-dail-covid-19-debate-5032868-Mar2020/ The Dáil is back today to discuss COVID-19, but there will be no vote for the next Taoiseach] The Journal, 2020-03-05
Seven new cases of coronavirus were confirmed in Ireland, including one patient at Cork University Hospital who had not travelled to an infected area.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0305/1120323-ireland-virus-containment/ Seven new coronavirus cases confirmed in Republic of Ireland] RTÉ News, 2020-03-05
6 March – The Government announced that it was not recommending the cancellation of mass public gatherings amid the spread of coronavirus.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/coronavirus-ireland-st-patricks-day-festival-set-to-go-ahead-as-taoiseach-confirms-no-cancellation-of-planned-large-gatherings-39021902.html Coronavirus Ireland: St Patrick's Day festival set to go ahead as Taoiseach confirms no cancellation of planned large gatherings] Irish Independent, 2020-03-06
7 March – The recruitment embargo on nurses and midwives was lifted in an effort to cope with the coronavirus outbreak.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/hse-lifts-embargo-on-nurse-and-midwife-recruitment-986411.html HSE lifts embargo on nurse and midwife recruitment] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-07
8 March – The Health Service Executive said that it cannot dispute projections that 1.9 million people in the Republic of Ireland may fall ill with coronavirus.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0308/1120943-covid-19/ HSE 'cannot dispute' 1.9m in Republic may fall ill with virus] RTÉ News, 2020-03-08
9 March
St. Patrick's Day parades were cancelled in cities and towns around the country, following concerns over the coronavirus.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/st-patricks-day-parades-cancelled-in-cork-and-dublin-986755.html Coronavirus: All St Patrick's Day parades in Ireland set to be cancelled] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401141331/https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/st-patricks-day-parades-cancelled-in-cork-and-dublin-986755.html |date=1 April 2020 }} Irish Examiner, 2020-03-09
A bill which has the potential to give Irish workers access to thousands of US visas every year was passed by the US House of Representatives.[https://www.rte.ie/news/us/2020/0309/1121254-e3-visas-bill/ Bill on Irish access to E-3 visas passes US House] RTÉ News, 2020-03-09
10 March
Ryanair and Aer Lingus announced that they were suspending all their Italian flights for a period of one month.[https://www.independent.ie/life/travel/travel-news/ryanair-suspends-all-italy-flights-as-country-goes-into-coronavirus-lockdown-39032367.html Ryanair suspends all Italy flights as country goes into coronavirus lockdown] Irish Independent, 2020-03-10
A patient admitted to Cork University Hospital, who had tested positive for COVID-19, was discharged after making a full recovery.[breakingnews.ie/ireland/first-coronavirus-patient-discharged-from-cuh-after-making-full-recovery-987419.html First coronavirus patient discharged from CUH after making full recovery] Breaking News, 2020-03-10
11 March
A woman in the east of the country with an underlying illness became the first COVID-19 patient to die in Ireland.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/coronavirus-first-death-in-ireland-from-covid-19-39035077.html Coronavirus: First death in Ireland from Covid-19] Irish Independent, 2020-03-11
The Green Party called on all parties to "work towards forming a crisis national government" to deal with the coronavirus outbreak.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0311/1121644-government-formation/ Greens call for crisis national government to deal with coronavirus] RTÉ News, 2020-03-11
12 March
The Taoiseach met President Trump at the White House as part of the St. Patrick's Day festivities.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/varadkar-raises-issue-of-undocumented-irish-in-trump-meeting-987609.html Varadkar raises issue of undocumented Irish in Trump meeting]{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Irish Examiner, 2020-03-12
The Taoiseach said the country's schools, colleges and childcare facilities were to close until 29 March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/coronavirus-ireland-27-new-cases-of-covid-19-confirmed-as-emergency-measures-kick-in-with-schools-and-childcare-facilities-closed-39038929.html Coronavirus Ireland: 27 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed as emergency measures kick in, with schools and childcare facilities closed] Irish Independent, 2020-03-12
The GAA, FAI and IRFU took the unprecedented step of suspending all games for a two-week period in response to the coronavirus pandemic.[https://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/2020/0312/1121866-gaa-cancel-all-games-euro-2020-under-review/ GAA, FAI & IRFU suspend all games, Euro 2020 under review] RTÉ News, 2020-03-12
13 March – Senior members of the Gardaí who were due to retire in the coming weeks have been asked to stay on in the national interest.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0313/1122045-garda-coronavirus/ Senior gardaí asked to delay retirement 'in national interest' over Covid-19] RTÉ News, 2020-03-13
14 March
The Taoiseach said COVID-19 was a virus "that knows no borders" at a meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council in Armagh.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0314/1123205-north-south-council-armagh-coronavirus/ Coronavirus 'does not recognise borders' - Varadkar] RTÉ News, 2020-03-14
The Department of Health announced that a second person in the east of the country had died as a result of COVID-19.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/covid-19-second-death-confirmed-as-total-number-of-cases-reaches-129-987995.html Covid-19: Second death confirmed as total number of cases reaches 129] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-14
US Vice-President Mike Pence announced that a travel ban imposed on European nations over the coronavirus pandemic would be extended to Ireland.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0314/1123284-us-imposes-europe-travel-ban/ US extends travel ban to Ireland, UK over coronavirus] RTÉ News, 2020-03-14
15 March – The government asked pubs and bars to close until 29 March as part of measures to delay the spread of coronavirus.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-51901372 |title=Coronavirus: Pubs asked to close by Irish government |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=15 March 2020 |accessdate=15 March 2020}}
16 March
It was revealed that a possible 140,000 people have been laid off work because of the measures taken to tackle the coronavirus.[https://www.irishpost.com/news/140000-people-ireland-lose-jobs-due-coronavirus-crisis-forcing-businesses-close-181717 140,000 people in Ireland lose their jobs due to coronavirus crisis forcing businesses to close] Irish Post, 2020-03-16
The GAA offered the use of Croke Park as a COVID-19 drive-through testing centre.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0316/1123602-croke-park-to-be-used-as-covid-19-testing-centre/ Croke Park to be used as Covid-19 testing centre] RTÉ News, 2020-03-16
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar confirmed that some 15,000 coronavirus infections were expected by the end of the month.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/government-advises-against-non-essential-overseas-travel-and-predicts-15000-covid-19-infections-by-end-of-month-988356.html Govt advises against non essential overseas travel; 15,000 Covid-19 infections predicted by month's end] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-16
17 March
For the first time since 2001, there were no traditional St. Patrick's Day parades held in any part of the country.
New measures regarding the legal, medical and social welfare elements of the coronavirus were signed off on following an incorporeal meeting of the cabinet.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0317/1123748-cabinet/ Cabinet signs off on emergency Covid-19 legislation] RTÉ News, 2020-03-17
In a special Ministerial Briefing broadcast, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the coronavirus emergency could go on for months into the summer.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0317/1123774-taoiseach-to-broadcast-to-country-on-covid-19-at-9pm/ Covid-19 emergency to continue beyond March - Varadkar] RTÉ News, 2020-03-17
18 March
The first of three days of detailed policy discussions between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael began.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/fine-gael-and-fianna-fail-to-meet-for-first-of-three-days-of-policy-talks-988583.html Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil to meet for first of three days of policy talks] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-18.
Health Minister Simon Harris confirmed that 24,000 people contacted the HSE in response to the request for staff to be on call to assist the health services.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/breakdown-coronavirus-cases-rise-to-366-reaching-23-counties-with-22pc-community-transmission-39055727.html Breakdown: Coronavirus cases rise to 366, reaching 23 counties with 22pc community transmission] Irish Independent, 2020-03-18.
The GAA confirmed that the start of the 2020 All-Ireland Football Championship had been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.[https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/sport/gaa/coronavirus-start-ireland-football-championship-17945694 Coronavirus: Start of All-Ireland football championship postponed] Belfast Live, 2020-03-18.
The five main banks agreed to introduce measures to help those affected by coronavirus, including a payment break and the deferment of court proceedings.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0318/1123788-banks-covid-19/ Banks announce measures for customers and businesses impacted by Covid-19] RTÉ News, 2020-03-18.
The Department of Health confirmed that Leitrim, Laois and Monaghan were the only three counties within the state without a COVID-19 case.[https://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/coronavirus/527054/74-new-confirmed-cases-of-covid-19-in-ireland-as-at-midday-18-march.html Laois is one of only three Irish counties without a case of Covid-19] Leinster Express, 2020-03-18.
19 March
The 2020 Leaving Cert and Junior Cert oral and practical examinations were cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/oral-and-practical-tests-for-leaving-and-junior-cert-cancelled-988837.html Oral and practical tests for Leaving and Junior Cert cancelled] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-19.
The Dáil passed emergency legislation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic without a vote and with a limited number of just 48 TDs present.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/taoiseach-says-coronavirus-emergency-may-extend-into-summer-elderly-people-will-be-asked-to-self-isolate-39053054.html Taoiseach says coronavirus emergency may extend into summer, elderly people will be asked to self-isolate] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-19.
A woman from the east of the country became the third person in Ireland to die from COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0319/1124218-coronavirus-ireland/ Third death as 191 new Covid-19 cases reported, bringing total to 557] RTÉ News, 2020-03-19.
20 March
319 students, some of whom had only been in training in the Garda College for the last few weeks, were sworn in as Gardaí and assigned to stations all over the country.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/hundreds-of-garda%C3%AD-mobilised-in-force-s-biggest-deployment-1.4207799 Hundreds of gardaí mobilised in force’s biggest deployment] Irish Times, 2020-03-20.
The Seanad passed emergency legislation giving the State new powers to detain people, restrict travel and keep people in their homes during the COVID-19 crisis.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/seanad-pass-draconian-emergency-covid19-legislation-despite-serious-concerns-989170.html Seanad pass 'draconian' emergency Covid-19 legislation despite 'serious concerns'] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-20.
Seán Cox returned home to Dunboyne almost two years after suffering life-changing head injuries in an attack outside a Liverpool match.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0320/1124444-sean-cox-returns-home-two-years-after-liverpool-attack/ Sean Cox returns home, almost two years after Liverpool attack] RTÉ News, 2020-03-20.
21 March – Aer Lingus increased its capacity on Spanish routes by 20% in an effort to bring as many Irish citizens home as possible before tonight's deadline of midnight.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/aer-lingus-boosts-capacity-on-spain-routes-to-meet-deadline-for-home-coming-irish-tourists-989323.html Aer Lingus boosts capacity on Spain routes to meet deadline for home-coming Irish tourists] Breaking News, 2020-03-21.
22 March – A fourth person died of COVID-19 in the Republic of Ireland as confirmed cases passed the 1,000 mark on the island of Ireland.[rte.ie/news/2020/0322/1124663-hse-reid/ Coronavirus: Fourth person dies in Republic of Ireland] RTÉ News, 2020-03-22.
23 March – A number of multi-national fast food chains and restaurants closed their doors due to the coronavirus pandemic, leaving thousands without work.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/mcdonalds-starbucks-and-krispy-kreme-among-fast-food-chains-and-restaurants-to-close-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-39068334.html McDonalds, Starbucks and Krispy Kreme among fast food chains and restaurants to close amid coronavirus pandemic] Irish Independent, 2020-03-23.
24 March
The school and college shutdown was extended until Monday 20 April at the earliest.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/education/coronavirus-ireland-schools-to-remain-closed-until-at-least-april-20-but-no-decision-on-state-exams-39071852.html Coronavirus Ireland: "Schools to remain closed until at least April 20 but no decision on State exams"] Irish Independent, 2020-03-24.
The Taoiseach announced "unprecedented" restrictions regarding the closures of non-essential retail businesses and facilities effective from midnight.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0324/1124966-cabinet-coronavirus/ Govt announces 'unprecedented actions' to respond to 'unprecedented emergency'] RTÉ News, 2020-03-24.
The Government announced a €3.7bn package to support businesses and workers who had been laid-off due to the virus.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/govt-announces-37bn-package-to-give-confidence-to-employers-to-retain-workers-after-covid-19-epidemic-989886.html Govt announces €3.7bn package to 'give confidence to employers to retain workers' after Covid-19 epidemic] Breaking News, 2020-03-24.
25 March – Gardaí began three criminal investigations into incidents where emergency service employees had been coughed at or spat at in the course of their work.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0325/1126291-coughing-investigation/ Investigation after emergency service workers 'coughed at'] RTÉ News, 2020-03-25.
26 March
Minister for Health Simon Harris announced that student nurses would be paid for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/student-nurses-to-be-paid-for-duration-of-coronavirus-pandemic-39079270.html Student nurses to be paid for duration of coronavirus pandemic] Irish Independent, 2020-03-26.
Front line healthcare workers were applauded by TDs in the Dáil and people all over Ireland at 8pm.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/nation-pauses-to-applaud-healthcare-workers-39079422.html Nation pauses to applaud healthcare workers] Irish Independent, 2020-03-26.
The Dáil passed the Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Bill without a vote.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0326/1126423-coronavirus-politics/ Dáil passes emergency Covid-19 legislation] RTÉ News, 2020-03-26.
27 March
The Taoiseach announced that from midnight until 12 April, everybody must stay at home except in specific circumstances.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/covid-19-taoiseach-announces-range-of-new-restrictions-39082548.html Covid-19: Taoiseach announces range of new restrictions] Irish Independent, 2020-03-27.
Miriam O'Callaghan became the first female presenter of RTÉ's The Late Late Show when she stood in for regular presenter Ryan Tubridy.[https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/tv-radio-web/miriam-o-callaghan-to-present-late-late-show-as-tubridy-has-persistent-cough-1.4213826 Miriam O’Callaghan to present Late Late Show as Tubridy has ‘persistent cough’] Irish Times, 2020-03-27.
28 March – Aer Lingus flight EI9018 left Dublin Airport on the first of up to 60 flights to Beijing to collect medical supplies.[https://www.thejournal.ie/plane-ppe-dublin-china-5060831-Mar2020/ 'Bíodh turas sábháilte agat': Air traffic control's good luck message to plane due to carry PPE from China] The Journal, 2020-03-28.
29 March – Public funerals were banned in two Catholic dioceses as part of efforts to halt the spread of coronavirus.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0329/1127156-more-public-funeral-masses-are-banned-for-now/ Public funerals banned in two Catholic dioceses] RTÉ News, 2020-03-29.
30 March – Polls closed at 11am and counting began in the election of candidates to the 26th Seanad.[https://www.thejournal.ie/seanad-election-counting-5059392-Mar2020/ Counting in Seanad election to begin today - but access to count venue will be restricted] The Journal, 2020-03-30.
31 March
Seán Kyne became the first candidate elected to the Seanad.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/seanad-election-independent-victor-boyhan-tops-poll-for-agricultural-panel-1.4216650 Seanad election: Independent Victor Boyhan tops poll for agricultural panel] Irish Times, 2020-03-31.
The Government announced that the fuel allowance season would be extended for four weeks as those over 70 were encouraged to continue "cocooning".[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/fuel-allowance-to-be-extended-in-response-to-covid-19-991223.html Fuel allowance to be extended in response to Covid-19] Irish Examiner, 2020-03-31.
Construction firm BAM announced that work was to cease on the National Children's Hospital as a result of COVID-19 measures.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0331/1127674-childrens-hospital/ Work to stop on National Children's Hospital during Covid-19 crisis] RTÉ News, 2020-03-31.
Public access to the swimming pool in the Templemore Garda College is ended in line with public health restrictions{{cite web|last=O'Connor|first=Niall|date=2020-05-20|title='People are so upset': Protests at Garda college after locals locked out of pool after 40 years|url=https://www.thejournal.ie/garda-college-swimming-opw-we-just-want-to-swim-5909818-Nov2022/|access-date=2023-07-13|website=TheJournal.ie|language=en}}

= April =

1 April
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Ronan Glynn took over from Tony Holohan who underwent tests in hospital that were unrelated to COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0401/1127839-tony-holohan/ Tony Holohan in hospital, undergoes non-virus related tests] RTÉ News, 2020-04-01.
It was announced that Special Needs Assistants in schools were to be reassigned to other duties in essential public services as part of the response to COVID-19.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/education/coronavirus-ireland-school-snas-to-be-redeployed-to-community-based-centres-for-children-with-disabilities-39094117.html Coronavirus Ireland: School SNAs to be redeployed to community-based centres for children with disabilities] Irish Independent, 2020-04-01.
The remainder of the 2019-20 Irish National Hunt horse racing season was cancelled, including the Fairyhouse and Punchestown Festivals.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/racing/national-hunt-season-over-as-fairyhouse-and-punchestown-festivals-cancelled-991525.html National Hunt season over as Fairyhouse and Punchestown Festivals cancelled] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-01.
2 April
President Higgins made a special radio broadcast in which he thanked, on behalf of the presidency and the Irish people, all the efforts of those tackling COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0402/1128077-higgins-speech/ President Michael D Higgins urges 'solidarity, empathy and kindness'] RTÉ News, 2020-04-02.
Health Minister Simon Harris said that the sitting of the Dáil ran contrary to the public health advice which was for people to "stay at home."[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/simon-harris-claims-tds-are-risking-public-health-by-meeting-today-39097290.html Simon Harris claims TDs are 'risking public health' by meeting today] Irish Independent, 2020-04-02.
The number of benefit claimants on the Live Register by March increased to an all-time high of 513,350 - more than a fifth of the working population in the state.[https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/record-330-000-jump-in-numbers-claiming-unemployment-benefits-1.4218906 Record 330,000 jump in numbers claiming unemployment benefits] Irish Times, 2020-04-02.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said that "by hook or by crook" the Leaving and Junior Certificate exams would take place.[https://www.rte.ie/news/education/2020/0402/1128166-state-exams/ State exams to go ahead 'by hook or by crook'] RTÉ News, 2020-04-02.
3 April
Part of the recently procured consignment of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was described as "not fit for purpose" and "unusable" by medical staff.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0403/1128300-ppe-covid-19-ireland/ Some new PPE delivered 'not fit for purpose' - medical staff] RTÉ News, 2020-04-03.
Alan Kelly became the 13th leader of the Labour Party after beating Aodhán Ó Riordáin in the leadership contest.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/victory-for-alan-kelly-in-labour-leadership-contest-as-aodh%C3%A1n-%C3%B3-r%C3%ADord%C3%A1in-concedes-1.4220052 Victory for Alan Kelly in Labour leadership contest as Aodhán Ó Ríordáin concedes] Irish Times, 2020-04-03.
4 April – Three men were arrested by the PSNI after two ATMs were stolen from banks on the main street in Dundalk overnight.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/three-held-after-south-armagh-gang-steals-atms-in-dundalk-1.4221100 Three held after South Armagh gang steals ATMs in Dundalk] Irish Times, 2020-04-04.
5 April – Taoiseach Leo Varadkar re-registered as a medical practitioner and said he would work one shift a week to help out during the coronavirus crisis.[https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/republic-of-ireland/taoiseach-rejoins-medical-register-to-help-coronavirus-fight-39104516.html Taoiseach rejoins medical register to help coronavirus fight] Irish Times, 2020-04-05.
6 April – It was agreed that a full sitting of the Dáil to elect a Taoiseach would take place in the Convention Centre in Dublin if necessary.[https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/convention-centre-mooted-as-new-dail-venue-39107228.html Convention centre mooted as new Dail venue] Irish Independent, 2020-04-06.
7 April – Health Minister Simon Harris signed regulations giving Gardaí the power to enforce COVID-19 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0407/1129175-policing-operation-easter/ Covid-19: Harris signs regulations for extra garda powers] RTÉ News, 2020-04-07.
8 April
The Gardaí began a special operation which saw additional checkpoints on the roads and extra patrols at key locations, such as parks and beauty spots.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/coronavirus-use-of-new-garda-powers-a-last-resort-1.4223917 Coronavirus: Use of new Garda powers ‘a last resort’] Irish Times, 2020-04-08.
The Mater Hospital announced that the intensive care unit there was full with some patients being moved to the high dependency unit.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/icu-unit-at-dublins-mater-hospital-is-full-senior-medic-says-39113126.html ICU unit at Dublin’s Mater hospital is full, senior medic says] Irish Independent, 2020-04-08.
9 April – Health Minister Simon Harris said he expected the restrictions to slow the spread of the coronavirus to be in place for "a period of weeks."[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0409/1129463-covid-19-coronavirus-ireland/ Harris expects Covid-19 restrictions to remain for 'period of weeks'] RTÉ News, 2020-04-09.
10 April
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced that restrictions on movement implemented to contain the outbreak of COVID-19 would remain in place until 5 May.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/coronavirus-lockdown-to-continue-until-may-5-993433.html "Coronavirus: Lockdown to continue until May 5"] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-10.
The Leaving Certificate examinations were postponed until late July or August while the Junior Certificate exams were cancelled.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/breaking-leaving-cert-postponed-as-junior-cert-cancelled-993434.html Leaving Cert postponed until July or August and Junior Cert cancelled] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-10.
11 April – People all over the country took part in the #ShineYourLight campaign in a gesture of hope and solidarity during the COVID-19 pandemic.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0411/1130022-shine-light-initiative/ A shining example of solidarity across Ireland] RTÉ News, 2020-04-11
12 April – Scaled back ceremonies took place at Áras an Uachtaráin and the GPO to mark the anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/this-easter-will-be-unlike-any-we-can-remember-president-michael-d-higgins-leads-1916-rising-commemorations-39122169.html 'This Easter will be unlike any we can remember' - President Michael D Higgins leads 1916 Rising commemorations] Irish Independent, 2020-04-12
13 April
The number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 in the Republic passed through the 10,000 threshold nearly a month and a half after the first case.[https://www.newstalk.com/news/total-number-coronavirus-cases-republic-passes-10000-999255 Total number of coronavirus cases in Republic passes 10,000] Irish Independent, 2020-04-13
The HSE said that some patients were wrongly told they had tested negative for COVID-19 because some lab tests came back with indeterminate results.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0413/1130283-tests-error-hse/ Some patients wrongly told they had tested negative for Covid-19] RTÉ News, 2020-04-13
14 April – Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald confirmed that she received a positive diagnosis for COVID-19.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/sinn-fein-leader-mary-lou-mcdonald-tests-positive-for-covid-19-993909.html Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald tests positive for Covid-19] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-14
15 April
A 24-year-old man in Wexford became the first person to be charged with breaching the new restrictions on movement introduced to stop the spread of COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0415/1130713-covid-charged-break-restrictions/ First person charged with violating virus restrictions] RTÉ News, 2020-04-15
A joint policy document from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael was published which included details on economic recovery, health, childcare, housing and a United Ireland.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/historic-coalition-read-the-fianna-fail-and-fine-gael-policy-document-in-full-39130325.html 'Historic coalition' - read the Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael policy document in full] Irish Independent, 2020-04-15
Agreement was reached between unions and the HSE to allow healthcare staff be redeployed into private nursing homes during the COVID-19 crisis.[https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/healthcare-staff-to-be-redeployed-to-private-nursing-homes-to-fight-covid-19-39130001.html Healthcare staff to be redeployed to private nursing homes to fight Covid-19] Irish Independent, 2020-04-15
16 April
Speaking in the Dáil, the Taoiseach said he was doubtful that restrictions on movement would be lifted on 5 May.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/taoiseach-doubtful-covid-19-restrictions-will-be-lifted-on-may-5-994422.html "Taoiseach doubtful Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted on May 5"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200416214707/https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/taoiseach-doubtful-covid-19-restrictions-will-be-lifted-on-may-5-994422.html |date=16 April 2020 }} Irish Examiner, 2020-04-16
The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) reported that Ireland had reached a "plateau" in terms of the spread of the COVID-19 infection.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/spread-of-covid-19-infection-has-reached-a-plateau-with-growth-rate-close-to-zero-994503.html Spread of Covid-19 infection has reached a 'plateau' with growth rate 'close to zero'] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-16
17 April
A remote Special Congress of the GAA unanimously approved rule changes to allow the Association to effectively respond to emergencies such as the COVID-19 outbreak.[https://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/2020/0417/1132195-gaa-special-congress-approves-emergency-powers/ GAA Special Congress approves emergency powers] RTÉ News, 2020-04-17
There was growing condemnation of Dublin-based fruit company Keelings after chartering a plane to fly in strawberry pickers from Bulgaria amid the COVID-19 crisis.[https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/concerns-rise-over-fruit-pickers-flying-in-to-ireland-39136275.html Concerns rise over fruit pickers flying in to Ireland] Irish Independent, 2020-04-17
A new law was passed allowing babies to be registered online for the first time since records began in the mid-19th Century.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/up-to-4-000-new-babies-to-be-registered-electronically-for-first-time-1.4231795 Up to 4,000 new babies’ to be registered electronically for first time] Irish Times, 2020-04-17
18 April – The Cranberries became the first Irish band to reach one billion plays on YouTube for their protest song Zombie.[https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/2020/0418/1132342-the-cranberries-join-youtubes-billion-hall-of-fame/ The Cranberries join YouTube's billion Hall of Fame] RTÉ News, 2020-04-18
19 April – The head of the HSE said that more than one million items of personal protective equipment (PPE) were delivered to nursing homes across Ireland in recent days.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/one-million-items-of-ppe-delivered-to-nursing-homes-994865.html One million items of PPE delivered to nursing homes] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200420172825/https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/one-million-items-of-ppe-delivered-to-nursing-homes-994865.html |date=20 April 2020 }} Irish Examiner, 2020-04-19
20 April
The Supreme Court sat using remote video technology for the first time.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/supreme-court-conducts-first-ever-hearing-via-remote-video-technology-994987.html Supreme Court conducts first ever hearing via remote video technology] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-20
Virtual sittings of the Dáil and Seanad were ruled out after legal advice stated that such parliamentary meetings were not permitted by the Constitution.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0420/1132695-virtual-gatherings-of-dail-and-seanad-not-permitted/ Virtual gatherings of Dáil and Seanad not permitted] RTÉ News, 2020-04-20
The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection revealed that over one million people were either fully or partially dependent on the state for income support.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/coronavirus-over-one-million-people-now-receiving-state-income-support-1.4233192 Coronavirus: Over one million people now receiving State income support] Irish Times, 2020-04-20
21 April
Gatherings of more than 5,000 people were banned until the end of August under new government plans.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/gatherings-of-at-least-5000-people-remain-banned-until-end-of-august-995303.html Gatherings of at least 5,000 people remain banned until end of August] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-21
The Minister for Finance said that Irish GDP would fall by 10.5% over the rest of the year with unemployment peaking at 22% in the second quarter.[https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/ireland-in-severe-recession-due-to-covid-19-says-donohoe-39145762.html Ireland in severe recession due to Covid-19, says Donohoe] Irish Independent, 2020-04-21
22 April
The Taoiseach confirmed that paid leave would be provided for the partners of healthcare workers to assist with childcare issues in the home.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/taoiseach-announces-paid-leave-for-partners-of-healthcare-workers-995522.html Taoiseach announces paid leave for partners of healthcare workers] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-22
Education Minister Joe McHugh asked second-level schools not to act unilaterally after some schools opted out of the replacement Junior Certificate exams.[https://www.rte.ie/news/education/2020/0422/1134144-junior-cert/ Schools urged to hold-off on decision over Junior Cycle exams] RTÉ News, 2020-04-22
23 April – Health Minister Simon Harris told the Dáil that the reproductive rate for the COVID-19 virus in Ireland had fallen to between 0.5 and 1.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0423/1134411-health-politics-coronavirus/ Harris says progress in suppressing virus a 'tribute to solidarity'] RTÉ News, 2020-04-23
24 April – The number of people to die from COVID-19 in the Republic passed the 1,000 mark.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0424/1134671-covid-irish-toll/ Covid-19 death toll increases to 1,014 - Dept of Health] RTÉ News, 2020-04-24
25 April – Health Minister Simon Harris suggested that there would be no "big bang" of lifting the COVID-19 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0425/1134732-holohan-coronavirus-restrictions-compliance/ Harris rules out 'big bang' of lifting restrictions] RTÉ News, 2020-04-25
26 April – A new model that could deliver over 100,000 coronavirus tests per week was formally agreed between the HSE and the Department of Health.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0426/1134850-covid-ireland/ New model to scale up Covid-19 test capacity agreed - HSE] RTÉ News, 2020-04-26
27 April – The Rose of Tralee International Festival was cancelled for the first time in its 61-year history because of the coronavirus crisis.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/coronavirus-ireland-rose-of-tralee-festival-cancelled-39159291.html Coronavirus Ireland: Rose of Tralee festival cancelled] Irish Independent, 2020-04-27
28 April – It was revealed that the number of people arrested for suspected breaches of the COVID-19 regulations more than doubled in the previous week.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0428/1135264-covid19-coronavirus-border/ 76 arrests for suspected breaches of Covid-19 rules] RTÉ News, 2020-04-28
29 April
The Horse Racing Ireland chief executive admitted that it would have been better if the Cheltenham Festival had gone ahead behind closed doors.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/racing/cheltenham-should-have-been-behind-closed-doors-says-horse-racing-chief-996696.html Cheltenham should have been behind closed doors, says horse racing chief] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-29
The Taoiseach said that the rate of deaths and new cases of COVID-19 were not low enough to loosen coronavirus restrictions.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/were-not-there-yet-taoiseach-says-restrictions-wont-be-lifted-in-coming-days-996662.html 'We're not there yet': Taoiseach says restrictions won't be lifted in coming days] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-29
The Education Minister announced that schools could decide the format and timing of their own forms of assessment for Junior Cert students.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/schools-allowed-to-conduct-junior-cert-alternatives-before-summer-holidays-minister-announces-996699.html Schools allowed to conduct Junior Cert alternatives before summer holidays, Minister announces] Irish Examiner, 2020-04-29
30 April – Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said a plan was being developed to relax the current COVID-19 measures but any easing of the restrictions would be done gradually.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0430/1135727-dail-covid-19-questions/ Ministers told reopening pubs will be at end of process to unwind restrictions] RTÉ News, 2020-04-30

= May =

1 May
The Taoiseach announced that the strict COVID-19 restrictions would be extended until 18 May.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0501/1135923-cabinet/ Outdoor time for over 70s and exercise limit extended to 5km] RTÉ News, 2020-05-01
Ryanair and Aer Lingus revealed that they plan to cut 4,000 jobs as a result of the pandemic.[https://www.independent.ie/business/ryanair-to-cut-3000-jobs-and-aer-lingus-plans-to-axe-900-staff-39172777.html Ryanair to cut 3,000 jobs and Aer Lingus plans to axe 900 staff] Irish Independent, 2020-05-01
2 May
The Government signed off on a €6.5bn package of new supports to help businesses reopen as COVID-19 restrictions are slowly lifted.[https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/coronavirus-government-announces-6-5bn-package-of-supports-for-businesses-1.4243788 Coronavirus: Government announces €6.5bn package of supports for businesses] Irish Times, 2020-05-02
Fianna Fáil called on the Government to cancel the Leaving Certificate and work on what it called "fair alternatives".[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/fianna-fail-want-leaving-cert-cancelled-as-dept-plans-for-july-29-exam-start-997329.html "Fianna Fáil want Leaving Cert cancelled as Dept plans for July exam start"] Irish Examiner, 2020-05-02
3 May
The Green Party parliamentary party voted to enter negotiations on a programme for government with Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/green-party-to-enter-government-talks-with-fianna-f%C3%A1il-and-fine-gael-1.4244053 Green Party to enter government talks with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael] Irish Times, 2020-01-03.
The Health Service Executive began investigating an incident at Regional Hospital Mullingar where the body of a deceased patient was given to the wrong family.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/coronavirus-family-given-wrong-body-of-loved-one-by-hospital-in-the-midlands-1.4243915?mode=sample&auth-failed=1&pw-origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.irishtimes.com%2Fnews%2Fireland%2Firish-news%2Fcoronavirus-family-given-wrong-body-of-loved-one-by-hospital-in-the-midlands-1.4243915 Coronavirus: Family given wrong body of loved one by hospital in the Midlands] Irish Times, 2020-01-03.
4 May – Publicans proposed a plan to convince public health officials to allow bars to reopen six weeks earlier than planned.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0504/1136409-vintners/ Publicans propose plans to reopen six weeks earlier than scheduled] RTÉ News, 2020-05-04.
5 May
Some minor easing of COVID-19 restrictions came into effect, including allowing people travel up to 5 km from their home to exercise.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0504/1136424-virus-restriction-changes/ How virus restrictions change from today] RTÉ News, 2020-05-05.
Six wild boarlets born in County Donegal were believed to be the first of the species to be born in Ireland in about 800 years.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ulster/2020/0505/1136581-boarlets-donegal/ Wild boarlets born in Donegal believed to be first in 800 years] RTÉ News, 2020-05-05.
6 May – GAA officials ruled out any inter-county games before October and said there was a lack of appetite for matches with no spectators.[https://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/2020/0506/1136808-gaa-remain-committed-to-playing-championships-this-year/ GAA rules out any inter-county games before October] RTÉ News, 2020-05-06.
7 May
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said it was possible that the coronavirus was already in Ireland much earlier than the first confirmed case in February.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/oireachtas/coronavirus-may-have-been-in-ireland-last-year-taoiseach-says-1.4247423 Coronavirus may have been in Ireland last year, Taoiseach says] Irish Times, 2020-05-07.
The first round of talks between Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and the Green Party to agree a programme for government took place.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0507/1136925-programme-for-govt/ Formal talks on programme for government begin] RTÉ News, 2020-05-07.
8 May
The CSO revealed that the unemployment rate for April, as measured by the COVID-19 adjusted measure, jumped to a new record high of 28.2%.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/business/numbers-at-work-at-their-lowest-level-in-20-years-unemployment-rate-hits-28-998406.html Numbers at work 'at their lowest level in 20 years': Unemployment rate hits 28%] Irish Examiner, 2020-05-08.
The 2020 Leaving Cert exams were cancelled, with all students being offered the option of accepting calculated grades instead of sitting written examinations.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/the-leaving-cert-is-important-but-it-is-life-that-matters-education-minister-officially-cancels-leaving-cert-2020-39191441.html 'The Leaving Cert is important, but it is life that matters' - Education Minister officially cancels Leaving Cert 2020] Irish Independent, 2020-05-08.
9 May – Business Minister Heather Humphreys said that businesses that do not comply with new COVID-19 safety protocols would be shut down.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/businesses-that-do-not-comply-with-covid-19-safety-measures-will-be-shut-down-998586.html Businesses that do not comply with Covid-19 safety measures will be shut down] Irish Examiner, 2020-05-09.
10 May – GAA president John Horan said he did not expect Gaelic games to resume while social distancing measures remained in place.[https://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/2020/0510/1137557-horan-gaa-return-unlikely-if-social-distancing-remains/ Horan: GAA return unlikely as long as social distancing in place] RTÉ News, 2020-05-10.
11 May – Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan said there was cause for concern that some people believed the worst of the coronavirus was over.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0511/1137786-covid19-figures-ireland/ Concern over public belief that worst of virus is over] RTÉ News, 2020-05-11.
12 May – The new 19-member Dáil committee on COVID-19 held three and a half hours of private discussions after electing Independent TD, Michael McNamara, as its chair.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/independent-td-michael-mcnamara-elected-to-chair-dail-probe-into-coronavirus-response-39199874.html Independent TD Michael McNamara elected to chair Dáil probe into coronavirus response] Irish Independent, 2020-05-12.
13 May
The Taoiseach said that reopening schools and childcare facilities over the next couple of months was "among the safest things" to do.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/reopening-schools-among-safest-things-we-can-do-says-taoiseach-999329.html Reopening schools ‘among safest things we can do’, says Taoiseach] Irish Examiner, 2020-05-13.
The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Katherine Zappone, said the scheme to provide temporary childcare to healthcare workers had been cancelled due to low take-up.[https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/childcare-scheme-for-healthcare-workers-cancelled-39204924.html Childcare scheme for healthcare workers cancelled] Irish Independent, 2020-05-13.
14 May – It was revealed that the Mater Hospital failed to notify health authorities of almost 300 cases of coronavirus within legal time frames.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/hospital-investigated-after-late-reporting-of-almost-300-coronavirus-cases-999673.html Hospital investigated after late reporting of almost 300 coronavirus cases] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200521094124/https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/hospital-investigated-after-late-reporting-of-almost-300-coronavirus-cases-999673.html |date=21 May 2020 }} Irish Examiner, 2020-05-14.
15 May
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced that Phase One of lifting COVID-19 restrictions would begin on 18 May.[https://www.thejournal.ie/varadkar-phase-one-starting-monday-5099660-May2020/ Taoiseach confirms 'it is safe' to go ahead with Phase One of re-opening from Monday] The Journal, 2020-05-15.
The Labour Party formally ruled out joining talks to form a government with Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/labour-rules-out-government-talks-with-fianna-fail-fine-gael-and-greens-999809.html Labour rules out government talks with Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Greens] Breaking News, 2020-05-15.
16 May – The number of new cases of COVID-19 reported by the Department of Health fell below 100 for the first time in two months.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0516/1138761-coronavirus-children-warning/ Lowest number of new Covid-19 cases since mid-March] RTÉ News, 2020-05-16.
17 May – The National Famine Commemoration took place in St Stephen's Green in Dublin city centre.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0517/1138847-national-famine-commemoration/ Wreath laid to remember those who died and suffered during Famine] RTÉ News, 2020-05-17.
18 May – Thousands of shops, businesses and construction sites reopened as part of the first phase of the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0518/1138995-re-opening-phase-1-covid-19/ Thousands of shops, businesses reopen as restrictions ease] RTÉ News, 2020-05-18.
19 May
The 2020 Dublin Marathon was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.[https://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/athletics/dublin-marathon-and-race-series-cancelled-but-this-years-entries-valid-for-2021-39217092.html Dublin Marathon and race series cancelled but this year's entries valid for 2021] Irish Independent 2020-05-19
The CEO of the Health Service Executive, Paul Reid told a Dáil committee that Ireland would be dealing with COVID-19 for some considerable time to come.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0519/1139223-dail-covid-19-committee/ Ireland will deal with Covid-19 for considerable time to come - Reid] RTÉ News, 2020-05-19
20 May
It emerged that four Green Party councillors had urged Catherine Martin to challenge Eamon Ryan for the leadership of the party.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/saoirse-mchugh-i-hope-catherine-goes-for-it-she-would-be-a-very-competent-leader-39219804.html Saoirse McHugh: 'I hope Catherine goes for it - she would be a very competent leader'] Irish Independent, 2020-05-20
Tánaiste Simon Coveney welcomed the publication of the British government's plan to implement the Northern Ireland Protocol agreed in the Brexit Agreement.[https://www.rte.ie/news/brexit/2020/0520/1139557-irish-protocol/ Tánaiste warns of EU scepticism over UK plan on customs] RTÉ News, 2020-05-20
21 May
An investigation began after the door of an Air Corps helicopter fell off mid-flight and landed in the grounds of Moyle Park College.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/investigation-underway-after-door-falls-off-air-corps-helicopter-and-lands-near-dublin-school-39224885.html Investigation underway after door falls off Air Corps helicopter and lands near Dublin school] Irish Independent, 2020-05-21
The ASTI advised teachers not to engage with the new calculated grades system as plans to indemnify teachers against legal action were not strong enough.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/leaving-cert-plan-in-doubt-as-teachers-union-tells-members-not-to-co-operate-1.4258636 Leaving Cert plan in doubt as teachers’ union tells members not to co-operate] Irish Times, 2020-05-21
22 May – Agreement was reached with the ASTI over legal protections for teachers, thus allowing engagement with the predictive grades process for the Leaving Certificate.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/mchugh-everybody-is-in-agreement-on-indemnity-for-teachers-1001194.html 'Everybody is in agreement' on indemnity for teachers] Irish Examiner, 2020-05-22
23 May – Taoiseach Leo Varadkar reaffirmed that the two-metre social distancing rule was to remain in place and that there had been "no change" to the public health advice.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/covid-19-taoiseach-insists-no-change-from-two-metre-social-distancing-advice-1.4261086 Covid-19: Taoiseach insists no change from two metre social distancing advice] Irish Times, 2020-05-23
24 May – Minister for Health Simon Harris signed the regulations making it mandatory for all passengers coming into Ireland to fill out a passenger locator form.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0524/1140318-quarantine-regulations/ Forms for those entering State to be mandatory as regulations signed] RTÉ News, 2020-05-24
25 May – Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan reported that there were no deaths of people with COVID-19 in the past 24 hours.[https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/No-Covid-19-related-deaths-reported-for-24-hours-986ec8ef-2082-4551-8ef8-82bd1859ac07-ds No Covid-19 related deaths reported for 24 hours] Evening Echo, 2020-05-25
26 May
More than 17,000 Leaving Certificate students registered their details in the first day of an online registration system for this year's calculated grades.[https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/Online-portal-opens-for-Leaving-Cert-students-to-register-for-calculated-grades--a8434f08-61c0-4c82-bb4d-f7e23e812b08-ds Online portal opens for Leaving Cert students to register for calculated grades] Evening Echo, 2020-05-26
The Oireachtas COVID-19 committee heard that Nursing Homes Ireland repeatedly requested the Health Department to come to their aid in the battle with coronavirus.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/oireachtas/coronavirus-wealthy-nursing-home-directors-accused-of-complaining-taxpayer-not-doing-enough-1.4262817 Coronavirus: ‘Wealthy’ nursing home directors accused of complaining taxpayer not doing enough] Irish Times, 2020-05-26
27 May – Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan reaffirmed that the public advice on social distancing remained at two metres "for the moment" but was under constant review.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/two-metre-social-distancing-is-right-measure-for-now-says-holohan-1.4264108 Two-metre social distancing is 'right measure for now', says Holohan] Irish Times, 2020-05-27.
28 May – Education Minister Joe McHugh said it was hard to see all students being back at school in September if the two-metre social distancing rule remained in place.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/even-one-metre-rule-will-hinder-september-return-to-school-says-education-minister-1002272.html Even one-metre rule will hinder September return to school, says Education Minister] Irish Examiner, 2020-05-28
29 May
The Taoiseach confirmed that all primary and secondary schools would reopen at the beginning of the academic year at the end of August.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/schools-will-reopen-at-the-end-of-august-taoiseach-confirms-39244538.html Schools will reopen at the end of August, Taoiseach confirms] Irish Independent, 2020-05-29
Ibec asked the Government to bring forward the phases of reopening of the economy, scrap quarantine restrictions and reduce the two-metre social distancing rule.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/business/coronavirus-ibec-demands-faster-reopening-of-the-economy-and-reduction-of-two-metre-rule-1002518.html Coronavirus: Ibec demands faster reopening of the economy and reduction of two-metre rule] Irish Examiner, 2020-05-29
30 May – The statue of Luke Kelly located near Sheriff Street in Dublin was vandalised for the fifth time in 12 months.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0530/1143532-luke-kelly-statue/ Bust of Luke Kelly vandalised for fifth time] RTÉ News, 2020-05-30
31 May – Around 100 people demonstrated outside the US embassy in Dublin, demanding justice for George Floyd.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0531/1143691-floyd-protest-embassies/ Demonstrations held at several US embassies over George Floyd death] RTÉ News, 2020-05-31

= June =

1 June – Ireland passed the 25,000 mark for confirmed coronavirus cases after the Department of Health announced an additional 77 confirmed cases.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0601/1143745-covid-19-hospitals-ireland/ Covid-19: One further death, 77 additional cases] RTÉ News, 2020-06-01
2 June
The body of a missing five-year-old boy was recovered from Lough Mask in County Mayo.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/body-of-boy-5-recovered-from-lough-mask-39252464.html Body of boy (5) recovered from Lough Mask] Irish Independent, 2020-06-02
Dublin Zoo reopened with visitor restrictions in place under new health and safety protocols.[https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/dublin-zoo-set-to-reopen-with-limited-visitors-39250223.html Dublin Zoo set to reopen with limited visitors] Irish Independent, 2020-06-02
3 June – Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said that over 1,000 Irish citizens are stranded overseas as a result of COVID-19 restrictions and want to return home.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0603/1145259-coronavirus-travel/ Over 1,000 Irish citizens remain stranded overseas - Coveney] RTÉ News, 2020-06-03
4 June
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar condemned an "absence of moral leadership" in the United States following the murder of George Floyd.[https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/republic-of-ireland/taoiseach-condemns-absence-of-moral-leadership-following-george-floyd-death-39259917.html Taoiseach condemns ‘absence of moral leadership’ following George Floyd death] Belfast Telegraph, 2020-06-04
The Dáil was told the weekly pandemic unemployment payment would be cut for some part-time workers but would be extended "for months, not weeks" beyond 8 June.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/taoiseach-says-350-pandemic-payment-to-be-cut-for-some-part-time-workers-1.4270714 Taoiseach says €350 pandemic payment to be cut for some part-time workers] Irish Times, 2020-06-04
5 June – The Taoiseach announced that plans to ease coronavirus lockdown restrictions were being accelerated with the enactment of 'Phase 2 Plus' on 8 June.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/taoiseach-announces-move-to-phase-2-plus-of-covid-19-roadmap--summer-is-not-lost-1003613.html Taoiseach announces move to 'Phase 2 plus' of Covid-19 roadmap - 'Summer is not lost'] Irish Examiner, 2020-06-05
6 June – The Green Party deputy leader, Catherine Martin, declared her intention to challenge Eamon Ryan for the leadership of the party.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/catherine-martin-to-challenge-eamon-ryan-for-green-party-leadership-even-though-she-admits-timing-is-less-than-ideal-39265449.html Catherine Martin to challenge Eamon Ryan for Green Party leadership even though she admits timing is 'less than ideal'] Irish Independent, 2020-06-06
7 June – Talks between the leaders of Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and the Green Party took place as the parties tried to agree a programme for government.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0607/1145922-ireland-government-formation/ Varadkar, Martin, Ryan meeting described as 'constructive'] RTÉ News, 2020-06-07
8 June
Thousands of businesses opened for the first time in three months, as the second phase of the Government's plan to get the economy moving again got under way.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/coronavirus-lockdown-restrictions-eased-across-ireland-today-1003931.html Coronavirus: Lockdown restrictions eased across Ireland today] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200608114427/https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/coronavirus-lockdown-restrictions-eased-across-ireland-today-1003931.html |date=8 June 2020 }} Irish Examiner, 2020-06-08
A 68-bed field hospital was established at the University of Limerick's Sports Arena to help increase bed capacity at the region's overcrowded acute hospital.[https://www.rte.ie/news/health/2020/0608/1146112-new-field-hospital-in-limerick-is-established/ New field hospital in University of Limerick established] RTÉ News, 2020-06-08
9 June – People Before Profit called on local authorities in Galway to remove a monument to Christopher Columbus, which the party claimed glorified slavery and racism.[https://www.rte.ie/news/connacht/2020/0609/1146337-monuments-galway/ Call to remove Galway monuments 'glorifying slavery'] RTÉ News, 2020-06-09
10 June – The world's largest aircraft - the Antonov An-225 - landed at Shannon Airport with a consignment of Personal Protective Equipment for medical staff.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/antonov-225-worlds-largest-plane-lands-with-ppe-cargo-at-shannon-airport-1004488.html Antonov-225: World's largest plane lands with PPE cargo at Shannon Airport] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200610174325/https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/antonov-225-worlds-largest-plane-lands-with-ppe-cargo-at-shannon-airport-1004488.html |date=10 June 2020 }} Irish Examiner, 2020-06-10
11 June
Green Party leader Eamon Ryan apologised for using what he called "a racial slur" during a Dáil debate on racism in Irish society.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/eamon-ryan-apologises-for-using-n-word-in-dail-while-calling-for-inclusivity-1004672.html Eamon Ryan apologises for using N-word in Dáil while calling for inclusivity] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200611205614/https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/eamon-ryan-apologises-for-using-n-word-in-dail-while-calling-for-inclusivity-1004672.html |date=11 June 2020 }} Irish Examiner, 2020-06-11
The Government expressed "outrage" over the involvement of crime boss Daniel Kinahan in the brokering of the Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua boxing match.[https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/other-sports/government-express-outrage-to-uk-sports-minister-over-kinahan-boxing-involvement-1.4276924 Government express ‘outrage’ to UK sports minister over Kinahan boxing involvement] Irish Times, 2020-06-11
12 June
Mary Irvine became the first woman to be nominated by the Government as President of the High Court.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/ms-justice-mary-irvine-nominated-as-first-female-president-of-the-high-court-39281867.html Ms Justice Mary Irvine nominated as first female President of the High Court] Irish Independent, 2020-06-12
The Taoiseach announced that it aimed to get all children back to school full-time in late August or September by working on "bespoke solutions".[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/education/children-will-only-be-in-school-one-day-per-week-if-2m-social-distancing-rule-is-maintained-education-minister-39281192.html Children will only be in school one day per week if 2m social distancing rule is maintained – Education Minister] Irish Independent, 2020-06-12
13 June – The ASTI said teachers would not accept schools reopening with different social distancing rules than in other workplaces.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/teachers-will-not-agree-to-reduced-social-distancing-ahead-of-other-workplaces-union-insists-1005105.html Teachers ‘will not agree to reduced social distancing ahead of other workplaces,’ union insists] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200613193516/https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/teachers-will-not-agree-to-reduced-social-distancing-ahead-of-other-workplaces-union-insists-1005105.html |date=13 June 2020 }} Breaking News, 2020-06-13
14 June – Negotiations on a programme for government between the leaders of Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and the Green Party ended without resolution.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/party-leaders-to-continue-government-formation-talks-in-morning-after-failing-to-reach-deal-1005244.html Party leaders to continue government formation talks in morning after failing to reach deal] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615030242/https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/party-leaders-to-continue-government-formation-talks-in-morning-after-failing-to-reach-deal-1005244.html |date=15 June 2020 }} Breaking News, 2020-06-14
15 June
Retail outlets in shopping centres reopened for the first time since they were forced to close due to COVID-19 restrictions.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/shopping-centres-reopen-today-and-nursing-home-visits-resume-1.4278988 Shopping centres reopen today and nursing home visits resume] Irish Times, 2020-06-15.
A draft programme for government was agreed between Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party including provision for a rotating taoiseach.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0615/1147519-government-formation/ Agreement reached on draft programme for government] RTÉ News, 2020-06-15.
There were no coronavirus related fatalities on the island of Ireland for the first time in over three months.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0615/1147590-covid-19-ireland/ Covid-19: No additional deaths, 18 new cases] RTÉ News, 2020-06-15.
16 June
On Bloomsday, the state broadcaster, RTÉ, repeated its epic 30-hour broadcast of the full text of James Joyce's novel Ulysses for the first time in 38 years. The decision to repeat the broadcast was partly influenced by the COVID-19 quarantine in the country.[https://m.independent.ie/entertainment/books/ulysses-on-the-radio-a-29-hour-epic-is-released-from-the-archives-to-mark-bloomsday-39279671.html Ulysses on the radio: a 29-hour epic is released from the archives to mark Bloomsday] Irish Independent, 2020-06-14.
Former Fianna Fáil deputy leader Éamon Ó Cuív confirmed he would oppose the government formation deal and questioned why an agreement took so long.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/eamon-ocuiv-government-formation-crisis-has-been-manufactured-by-length-of-talks-1005641.html Eamon O'Cuiv: Government formation 'crisis' has been 'manufactured' by length of talks] Irish Examiner, 2020-06-16
17 June – Ireland won a seat for a two-year term on the United Nations Security Council.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/ireland-wins-seat-at-united-nations-security-council-39293454.html Ireland wins seat at United Nations Security Council] Irish Independent, 2020-06-17
18 June – A murder investigation began following the death of Detective Garda Colm Horkan in an overnight shooting incident in Castlerea, County Roscommon.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/an-attack-on-democracy-murder-probe-launched-after-garda-shot-with-his-own-gun-in-roscommon-39295327.html 'An attack on democracy' - Murder probe launched after garda shot with his own gun in Roscommon] Irish Independent, 2020-06-18
19 June
Aer Lingus confirmed the loss of 500 jobs due to the collapse in aviation traffic during the COVID-19 crisis.[https://www.irishtimes.com/business/transport-and-tourism/aer-lingus-confirms-500-jobs-to-be-lost-1.4283608 Aer Lingus confirms 500 jobs to be lost] Irish Times, 2020-06-19
The Taoiseach said that the reopening of a number of sectors had moved into Phase 3 of the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0619/1148355-covid19-ireland/ Covid-19: Taoiseach reveals acceleration of roadmap in Phase 3] RTÉ News, 2020-06-19
Stephen Silver was formally charged in relation to the fatal shooting of Detective Garda Colm Horkan.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/stephen-silver-charged-in-connection-with-killing-of-garda-colm-horkan-1006366.html Stephen Silver charged in connection with killing of Garda Colm Horkan] Breaking News, 2020-06-19
20 June – Infectious diseases specialist Sam McConkey said the chances of contracting COVID-19 had reached "one in a million" level in the community.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/expert-one-in-a-million-chance-of-randomly-contracting-covid-19-1006429.html Expert: One in a million chance of randomly contracting Covid-19] Breaking News, 2020-06-20
21 June
The state funeral of Detective Garda Colm Horkan took place in Charlestown, County Mayo.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0621/1148696-garda-funeral/ Mourners told Garda Colm Horkan was 'deeply loved'] RTÉ News, 2020-06-21
Clare Bailey, the leader of the Green Party in Northern Ireland, became the latest high-profile member to state her opposition to the draft programme for government.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/green-chief-in-north-is-latest-to-oppose-programme-for-government-1.4284649 Green chief in North is latest to oppose programme for government] Irish Times, 2020-06-21
22 June – Hollywood actor Mark Ruffalo took part in a web livestream to discuss fracking and the programme for government with Green Party members.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/climate-change-will-lead-to-mass-civil-disobedience-avengers-star-mark-ruffalo-tells-green-party-webinar-39307108.html Climate change will lead to 'mass civil disobedience' - Avengers star Mark Ruffalo tells Green Party webinar] Irish Independent, 2020-06-22
23 June
Organisers confirmed that the annual summer pilgrimage to Lough Derg was suspended for the first time in 192 years due to COVID-19.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/lough-derg-summer-pilgrimage-cancelled-for-first-time-in-192-years-over-covid-19-1.4286153 Lough Derg summer pilgrimage cancelled for first time in 192 years over Covid-19] Irish Times, 2020-06-23
INMO general secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha told a Dáil committee that Ireland had the highest number of healthcare workers infected with COVID-19 in the world.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/absolute-scandal-ireland-has-highest-covid-19-infection-rate-among-health-workers-in-the-world-dail-told-39308632.html 'Absolute scandal' - Ireland has highest Covid-19 infection rate among health workers in the world, Dáil told] Irish Independent, 2020-06-23
24 June – Ibec called for Ireland's international travel restrictions to be ended and for testing and tracing to be used in place of "ineffective" quarantine measures.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0624/1149350-ibec-travel-restrictions/ Ibec calls for end to international travel restrictions] RTÉ News, 2020-06-24
25 June
The government held what was expected to be its final cabinet meeting at Dublin Castle.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0625/1149571-cabinet-meeting-government-formation/ First details of new government ministries emerge ahead of party votes] RTÉ News, 2020-06-25
It was announced that the wearing of face coverings on public transport would be made mandatory with a sanction for non-compliance.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/revealed-air-travel-restrictions-to-be-eased-in-july-as-face-coverings-set-to-be-mandatory-on-public-transport-39313688.html Revealed: Air travel restrictions to be eased in July as face coverings set to be mandatory on public transport] Irish Independent, 2020-06-24
26 June – Members of the Green Party, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael voted in favour of backing the programme for government.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/eamon-ryan-feels-a-sense-of-responsibility-as-greens-join-fianna-fail-and-fine-gael-in-government-1007769.html Eamon Ryan feels a 'sense of responsibility' as Greens join Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael in government] Breaking News, 2020-06-26
27 June
A socially-distanced full sitting of Dáil Éireann took place at the Convention Centre in Dublin.[https://www.thejournal.ie/dail-convention-centre-5134330-Jun2020/ The Dáil sits in the Convention Centre today to elect a new Taoiseach - here's what to expect] The Journal, 2020-06-27
Micheál Martin succeeded Leo Varadkar as Taoiseach in a three-party coalition government.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/miche%C3%A1l-martin-elected-taoiseach-as-head-of-fianna-f%C3%A1il-fine-gael-and-green-coalition-1.4290529 Micheál Martin elected Taoiseach as head of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Green coalition] Irish Times, 2020-06-27
Eileen Ní Fhloinn became the first Traveller in the Oireachtas when the new taoiseach appointed her as a senator in the Seanad.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0627/1150063-new-cabinet-latest/ Revealed: New Cabinet and Taoiseach's Seanad nominees] RTÉ News, 2020-06-28.
28 June – Newly elected Taoiseach Micheál Martin was greeted by dozens of supporters and neighbours on his arrival home to Ballinlough in Cork city.[https://www.rte.ie/news/munster/2020/0628/1150159-micheal-martin/ Emotional homecoming as neighbours put out bunting for Taoiseach] RTÉ News, 2020-06-28
29 June
Pubs serving food, cafés and restaurants, hotels, hairdressers and beauty salons, tourist attractions and remaining retail outlets resumed trading as restrictions eased.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0629/1150213-coronavirus-restrictions-ireland/ Hairdressers, restaurants and more to reopen as restrictions further eased] RTÉ News, 2020-06-29
The new Cabinet held its first detailed discussions at Dublin Castle.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0629/1150234-cabinet-first-meeting-dublin-castle/ New Cabinet to review economic stimulus package during first meeting] RTÉ News, 2020-06-29
30 June – The Irish Travel Agents Association called on the Government to give clarity and make a decision on whether people should travel abroad or not.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0630/1150484-coronavirus-europe/ Travel uncertainty following advice by health expert to cancel foreign holidays] RTÉ News, 2020-06-30

= July =

1 July – The Government confirmed the full list of ministers of state, with seven from Fianna Fáil, seven from Fine Gael and three Green Party TDs.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/these-are-the-17-new-junior-ministers-completing-the-government-1008737.html These are the 17 new junior ministers completing the government] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-01
2 July
The Revenue Commissioners revealed that around 410,000 people are still having their incomes supported under the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0702/1150954-live-register-figures/ 410,000 remain on Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme - Revenue] RTÉ News, 2020-07-02
Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan announced that he was "taking time out" from his work commitments as his wife had been admitted to palliative care with cancer.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/health/dr-tony-holohan-to-temporarily-step-back-from-role-as-chief-medical-officer-39336008.html Dr Tony Holohan to temporarily step back from role as chief medical officer] Irish Independent, 2020-07-02
3 July – Gardaí began conducting checks of licensed premises nationwide to check if they were adhering to the public health guidelines for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0703/1151245-covid-gardai-compliance/ Gardaí to start inspecting pubs for Covid-19 compliance] RTÉ News, 2020-07-03
4 July – Gardaí closed a premises "allegedly operating as a restaurant" in Dublin and seized a large amount of alcohol after observing breaches of the COVID-19 regulations.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0705/1151461-covid-19-ireland/ Alcohol seized at Dublin premises operating as restaurant] RTÉ News, 2020-07-05
5 July – Two brothers died while scuba diving in a quarry in Portroe, County Tipperary.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/brothers-who-drowned-in-tipperary-tragedy-named-locally-1009381.html Brothers who drowned in Tipperary tragedy named locally] Breaking News, 2020-07-05
6 July
The Taoiseach announced that non-essential international travel was not advised until at least 20 July.[http://www.irishnews.com/paywall/tsb/irishnews/irishnews/irishnews//news/republicofirelandnews/2020/07/06/news/taoiseach-michea-l-martin-fears-international-travel-will-cause-coronavirus-resurgence-1996995/content.html "Avoid non-essential travel until July 20 Taoiseach says, amid fears international travel will cause coronavirus resurgence"] Irish News, 2020-07-06
The Irish Road Victims Association called for the Agriculture Minister Barry Cowen to resign after it emerged he received a driving ban for drink-driving in 2016.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/taoiseach-accepts-cowen-apology-as-road-victims-group-call-for-ministers-resignation-1009505.html Taoiseach accepts Cowen apology as road victims group call for minister's resignation] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-06
Dublin City Council voted unanimously to award the Freedom of the City of Dublin to Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/chief-medical-officer-tony-holohan-to-be-given-the-freedom-of-dublin-city-39344300.html Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan to be given the freedom of Dublin City] Irish Independent, 2020-07-06
7 July
A new COVID-19 tracker app was downloaded by more than 700,000 people just hours after it went live.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0706/1151751-ireland-contact-tracing-app/ More than 700,000 download Covid tracker app in first day] RTÉ News, 2020-07-07
In a personal Dáil statement on his 2016 drink-driving ban, Agriculture Minister Barry Cowen said he made a "stupid, stupid mistake" and was profoundly sorry.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/barry-cowen-statement-branded-a-hollow-exercise-without-facing-tds-questions-1009721.html Barry Cowen statement branded 'a hollow exercise' without facing TDs' questions] Breaking News, 2020-07-07
8 July
The Microenterprise Loan Fund Bill became the first piece of legislation to be passed outside of Leinster House since the foundation of the State.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0708/1152129-dail-legislation/ Dáil passes first piece of legislation outside of Leinster House] RTÉ News, 2020-07-08
The Department of Health confirmed that one million people had downloaded the COVID-19 tracker app in its first two days.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/one-million-people-have-now-downloaded-ireland-s-covid-19-tracker-app-1.4299056 One million people have now downloaded Ireland’s Covid-19 tracker app] Irish Times, 2020-07-08
9 July
NPHET said there was an "immediate need to take care and caution" as the reproductive rate of COVID-19 in Ireland stood at, or above, 1.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0709/1152238-covid19-coronavirus-ireland/ 'Care and caution' urged as reproductive rate 'at 1'] RTÉ News, 2020-07-09
Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe was elected as president of the group of eurozone finance ministers.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/paschal-donohoes-winning-of-job-chairing-eurogroup-was-a-victory-for-smaller-eu-states-over-big-39355354.html Paschal Donohoe’s winning of job chairing Eurogroup was a victory for smaller EU states over big] Irish Independent, 2020-07-09
10 July – The Taoiseach said that regulations to enforce the compulsory wearing of face coverings on public transport would come into effect from 13 July.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/taoiseach-warns-young-people-no-one-is-invincible-from-covid-19-as-face-coverings-mandatory-on-public-transport-from-monday-39357763.html Taoiseach warns young people 'no-one is invincible' from Covid-19, as face-coverings mandatory on public transport from Monday] Irish Independent, 2020-07-10
11 July – Two people were injured in a light aircraft crash near Killimordaly in County Galway.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/two-injured-as-small-plane-crash-lands-in-galway-field-1010634.html Two injured as small plane crash lands in Galway field] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200711230958/https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/two-injured-as-small-plane-crash-lands-in-galway-field-1010634.html |date=11 July 2020 }} Breaking News, 2020-07-11
12 July – Agriculture Minister Barry Cowen issued a statement stating he did not attempt to evade a Garda on the night he was found to be drink-driving in September 2016.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/barry-cowen-says-garda-record-of-drink-driving-incident-is-incorrect-1010695.html Barry Cowen says garda record of drink driving incident is 'incorrect'] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-12
13 July – Public transport companies reported a high compliance rate for the new face covering regulations that came into effect.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0713/1152904-covid19-coronavirus-ireland/ High compliance rates for face-covering regulations] RTÉ News, 2020-07-13
14 July
Birders flocked to Greystones after what was believed to be the first ever sighting of a tropical Brown Booby in Ireland.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/i-had-never-seen-a-bird-like-her-tropical-brown-booby-seen-for-the-first-time-in-ireland-39367313.html 'I had never seen a bird like her' - Tropical brown booby seen for the first time in Ireland] Irish Independent, 2020-07-14
The National Public Health Emergency Team expressed concern to the Government about the scheduled reopening of all bars on 20 July.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/coronavirus-pub-reopenings-in-danger-as-nphet-expresses-serious-concerns-at-case-growth-1.4304238?mode=sample&auth-failed=1&pw-origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.irishtimes.com%2Fnews%2Fireland%2Firish-news%2Fcoronavirus-pub-reopenings-in-danger-as-nphet-expresses-serious-concerns-at-case-growth-1.4304238 Coronavirus: Pub reopenings in danger as NPHET expresses serious concerns at case growth] Irish Times, 2020-07-14
Agriculture Minister Barry Cowen was sacked by Taoiseach Micheál Martin following ongoing controversy over his 2016 drink-driving ban.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/barry-cowen-sacked-as-minister-in-wake-of-drink-driving-controversy-39368471.html Barry Cowen sacked as minister in wake of drink-driving controversy] Irish Independent, 2020-07-14
15 July
The General Court of the European Union annulled the decision taken by the European Commission regarding Ireland's €13.1bn tax rulings in favour of Apple.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/apple-tax-court-ruling-a-vindication-for-ireland-paschal-donohoe-39370520.html Apple tax court ruling a vindication for Ireland - Paschal Donohoe] Irish Independent, 2020-07-15
Taoiseach Micheál Martin nominated Fianna Fáil deputy leader Dara Calleary to replace Barry Cowen as Agriculture Minister.[https://www.independent.ie/business/farming/news/politics/dara-calleary-appointed-new-agriculture-minister-as-gardai-contact-data-protection-commissioner-over-barry-cowen-drink-driving-case-39369804.html Dara Calleary appointed new Agriculture Minister as gardaí contact Data Protection Commissioner over Barry Cowen drink-driving case] Irish Independent, 2020-07-15
The Government announced that face coverings had to be worn in all shops, retail settings and shopping centres.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0715/1153527-mandate-calls-for-masks-to-be-mandatory/ Face coverings to be mandatory in all shops, retail settings] RTÉ News, 2020-07-15
The Cabinet decided that Ireland would not progress to Phase 4 of lifting the COVID-19 restrictions on 20 July over concerns about an increase in new COVID-19 cases.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/plans-to-reopen-pubs-postponed-until-august-10-amid-concerns-over-increase-in-covid-19-cases-39370745.html "Plans to reopen pubs postponed until August 10 amid concerns over increase in Covid-19 cases"] Irish Independent, 2020-07-15
16 July – The Acting Chief Medical Officer warned that Ireland was in a precarious and uncertain position in relation to the coronavirus pandemic.[https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/Covid-19-latest-Ireland-in-a-precarious-position-as-R-number-reaches-an-estimated-14-4c7c0c21-58f1-43f5-96ee-d574089901a0-ds Covid-19 latest: Ireland in a 'precarious position' as R-number reaches an estimated 1.4] The Echo, 2020-07-16
17 July – Taoiseach Micheál Martin travelled to Brussels for the first physical meeting of all European leaders since the coronavirus pandemic began.[https://www.thejournal.ie/micheal-martin-brussels-eu-summit-covid-test-5152281-Jul2020/ Taoiseach travels to Brussels for crunch EU summit, but will take 'special measures' upon return] The Journal, 2020-07-17
18 July – The Taoiseach said Ireland would be a net contributor to the European Union's €750 billion COVID-19 recovery fund.[https://www.rte.ie/news/europe/2020/0718/1154061-eu-meeting/ Ireland will be net contributor to EU recovery fund - Martin] RTÉ News, 2020-07-18
19 July – The government delayed the publication of its overseas travel "green list" as the Cabinet meeting to sign off on the measure was postponed.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40018415.html Government's travel 'green list' will not be published tomorrow] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-19
20 July – A building site in Dublin city centre was closed down temporarily after more than 20 workers tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/more-than-20-staff-from-building-site-test-positive-for-covid-19-39381275.html More than 20 staff from building site test positive for Covid-19] Irish Independent, 2020-07-20
21 July
A Health Information and Quality Authority report revealed that half of nursing homes inspected were not following proper infection prevention and control measures.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/half-of-nursing-homes-not-following-infection-protocols-says-hiqa-1011907.html Half of nursing homes not following infection protocols says HIQA] Breaking News, 2020-07-21
The Government agreed on a list of 15 countries where people can travel without being asked to quarantines on their return.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/government-agrees-green-list-of-15-countries-but-still-insists-dont-travel-abroad-39387184.html Government agrees 'green list' of 15 countries but still insists 'don't travel abroad'] Irish Independent, 2020-07-21
22 July – Voting in the Green Party leadership contest closed at 5.30pm.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40020326.html Voting in the Green Party leadership contest closes] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-22
23 July
Independent TD for Galway West Catherine Connolly became the first woman to be elected to the position of Leas-Cheann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40020911.html Catherine Connolly is the first woman to be elected Leas Ceann Comhairle] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-23
The Government announced a €7bn July Jobs Stimulus package of 50 new measures to boost economic recovery and get people back to work.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/07aef-government-launches-74-billion-jobs-stimulus-to-help-businesses-re-open-get-people-back-to-work-and-promote-confidence/ Government launches €7.4 billion Jobs Stimulus to help businesses re-open, get people back to work and promote confidence] Government of Ireland, 2020-07-23
The Green Party re-elected Eamon Ryan as its leader by a margin of 48 votes.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40021121.html Eamon Ryan wins Green leadership vote] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-23
24 July – The Taoiseach confirmed that all schools would fully reopen at the end of August.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40021403.html Taoiseach confirms schools reopening; Norma Foley rejects criticism] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-24
25 July – A rare copy of the 1916 Proclamation sold for €190,000 at an auction in Dublin.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0725/1155496-1916-proclamation-auction/ Copy of the 1916 Proclamation sells at auction for €190,000] RTÉ News, 2020-07-25
26 July – The Department of Social Protection confirmed that 104 cases of Pandemic Unemployment Payment were stopped after checks carried out at airports.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0726/1155630-pup-airport-checks/ 104 Pandemic Unemployment Payments stopped after airport checks, Dept confirms] RTÉ News, 2020-07-26
27 July
Gardaí began a murder investigation following the fatal shooting of a man in Ballyfermot in Dublin.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/crime/manhunt-launched-as-man-dead-after-being-shot-multiple-times-on-doorstep-of-dublin-home-39400295.html Manhunt launched as man dead after being shot multiple times on doorstep of Dublin home] Irish Independent, 2020-07-27
The Taoiseach, Cabinet ministers and junior ministers took a 10% pay cut, backdated to when they took up office.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40023071.html Taoiseach and ministers to take 10% pay cut] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-27
The Government agreed a €370m fund to ensure the safe and timely reopening of 4,000 schools for some one million pupils.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40023005.html Government approves €370m back-to-school fund] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-27
Journalist Alison O'Reilly makes public the names of 1,024 illegitimate children who died in Sean Ross Abbey mother and baby home (c.1932–70), in the Irish Daily Star.
28 July – New legislation was passed stating that anyone in receipt of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment had to be "genuinely seeking" employment.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0728/1156030-pup-covid-payments-dail/ Bill says PUP recipients must be 'genuinely seeking' employment] RTÉ News, 2020-07-28
29 July
A review by the Social Protection Minister stated that those on the Pandemic Unemployment Payment would be entitled to travel abroad but only to green list countries.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0729/1156187-pandemic-unemployment-payment/ Review finds 85 cases may have lost PUP due to holiday] RTÉ News, 2020-07-29
Four 153-year-old statues were removed from the front of the Shelbourne Hotel in the mistaken belief that they depicted slaves.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0728/1156087-statues-shelbourne/ Four statues removed from outside The Shelbourne hotel due to 'slavery links'] RTÉ News, 2020-07-29.
30 July
A healthcare assistant who raped a 73-year-old woman with Alzheimer's disease in her nursing home bed during the COVID-19 lockdown was jailed for 11 years.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/healthcare-worker-jailed-for-rape-of-nursing-home-resident-1012773.html Healthcare worker jailed for rape of nursing home resident] Breaking News, 2020-07-30
Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan resigned as party whip after voting against the Government twice on amendments to the Residential Tenancies Bill.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40024838.html Neasa Hourigan resigns as Green Party whip before voting against Govt] Irish Examiner, 2020-07-30
31 July
Around 200 Muslims and dignitaries gathered for the celebration of Eid al-Adha in Croke Park.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/eid-prayers-at-croke-park-symbol-of-religious-unity-during-pandemic-39412800.html Eid prayers at Croke Park 'symbol of religious unity during pandemic'] Irish Independent, 2020-07-31
The Taoiseach and Northern Ireland First Minister described the first meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council in three-and-a-half years as "constructive" and "warm".[https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-53603545 Arlene Foster and Michelle O'Neill attend North South Ministerial Council meeting] BBC News, 2020-07-31

= August =

1 August – Swimming was banned in five County Clare beaches after the waters tested for high levels of bacteria following heavy rain in the area.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/swimming-banned-in-five-clare-beaches-ahead-of-bank-holiday-weekend-1012958.html Swimming banned in five Clare beaches ahead of bank holiday weekend] Breaking News, 2020-08-01
2 August – Health Minister Stephen Donnelly announced that the Government is to introduce COVID-19 testing at airports due to the rise in cases in other countries.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40026014.html Government to bring in random Covid-19 testing at airports] Irish Examiner, 2020-08-02
3 August – The new president of the Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland warned of a teacher shortage ahead of schools reopening.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40026566.html ASTI warns of teacher shortage ahead of schools reopening] Irish Examiner, 2020-08-03
4 August – The Taoiseach confirmed that the reopening of pubs, hotel bars and nightclubs would not go ahead on 10 August as planned.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/phase-4-ireland-pubs-will-not-reopen-until-at-least-august-31-number-of-countries-removed-from-green-list-39422371.html "Phase 4 Ireland: Pubs will not reopen until at least August 31, number of countries removed from Green List"] Irish Independent, 2020-08-04
5 August – Figures revealed that the budget deficit increased to €7.4 billion in July as VAT receipts crashed and spending on income supports related to the pandemic soared.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0805/1157505-exchequer-deficit-july/ Exchequer deficit of €7.4bn in July as tax take fell 18.6% and spending rose 29.5%] RTÉ News, 2020-08-05
6 August
HIQA published evidence showing that mass temperature screening at airports would be ineffective in limiting the spread of COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0806/1157651-covid19-coronavirus-hiqa/ Mass temperature checks at airports not likely to be effective - HIQA] RTÉ News, 2020-08-06
Dublin City Council began an investigation into the unauthorised removal of four statues from outside the Shelbourne Hotel.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0806/1157753-shelbourne-statues/ The Shelbourne receives 'warning letter' from Dublin City Council] RTÉ News, 2020-08-06.
7 August – The Taoiseach announced the implementation of limited restrictions in counties Kildare, Laois and Offaly for two weeks in response to the spread of COVID-19.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40029179.html Kildare, Offaly and Laois residents not permitted to travel outside their counties] Irish Examiner, 2020-08-07.
8 August – The Garda Síochána began conducting checkpoints near the borders of counties Kildare, Laois and Offaly as part of the measures imposed on the counties.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0808/1158018-new-restrictions-in-place-in-kildare-laois-and-offaly/ Govt 'acting quickly to save lives', Minister says as restrictions reintroduced] RTÉ News, 2020-08-08.
9 August – Three of the four meat plants in the midlands where significant clusters of COVID-19 were found among the workforces decided to defer reopening.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/three-midlands-meat-plants-with-covid-19-clusters-defer-reopening-1.4325799 Three midlands meat plants with Covid-19 clusters defer reopening] Irish Times, 2020-08-09.
10 August
The wearing of face coverings became mandatory in shops, shopping centres and other indoor settings.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/face-coverings-now-mandatory-in-shops-and-other-indoor-settings-1.4326434 Face coverings now mandatory in shops and other indoor settings] Irish Times, 2020-08-10.
Tullamore food company Carroll Cuisine temporarily suspended production after it came under intense pressure to close following an outbreak of COVID-19.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40030361.html Carroll Cuisine suspends production amid Covid-19 outbreak; rapid testing expected to roll out in meat plants] Irish Examiner, 2020-08-10.
11 August – The Taoiseach announced that serial testing would be rolled out at meat plants across the country.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40030904.html Coronavirus: Micheál Martin promises serial testing at meat plants across Ireland] Irish Examiner, 2020-08-11.
12 August – Aaron Brady was found guilty of the capital murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe outside Lordship Credit Union in County Louth in 2013.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/we-will-be-knocking-on-your-door-gardai-warn-other-suspects-as-aaron-brady-convicted-of-capital-murder-of-detective-garda-adrian-donohoe-39430887.html 'We will be knocking on your door' – Gardaí warn other suspects as Aaron Brady convicted of capital murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe] Irish Independent, 2020-08-12.
13 August
Micheál Martin held his first face-to-face meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson since becoming Taoiseach during a visit to Northern Ireland.[https://www.thejournal.ie/micheal-martin-boris-johnson-2-5174921-Aug2020/ Taoiseach has first face-to-face meeting with Prime Minister Boris Johnson] The Journal, 2020-08-13.
Two paddleboarders were recovering in hospital after being rescued by a local fisherman, southwest of Inis Oírr, having spent 15 hours stranded in the water.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/exclusive-im-so-happy-i-had-given-up-father-of-rescued-paddle-boarder-on-moment-cousins-found-alive-off-galway-coast-39446258.html Exclusive: 'I’m so happy. I had given up' – father of rescued paddle boarder on moment cousins found alive off Galway coast] Irish Independent, 2020-08-13.
14 August
Sub-Lieutenant Tahlia Britton became the Irish Navy's first female diver when she received her diving log book in a ceremony at Haulbowline.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0814/1159252-naval-history-female-diver/ Donegal woman becomes first female diver in naval history] RTÉ News, 2020-08-14
Two of the four meat plants in the midlands hit by COVID-19 outbreaks—Irish Dog Foods in Naas and Carroll Cuisine in Tullamore—reopened on a phased basis.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/coronavirus-irish-dog-foods-and-carroll-cuisine-facilites-to-reopen-on-phased-basis-1.4330222 Coronavirus: Irish Dog Foods and Carroll Cuisine facilites [sic] to reopen on phased basis] The Irish Times, 2020-08-14
15 August – The Chairman of Fáilte Ireland, Michael Cawley, stepped down after it emerged he had travelled to Italy on holiday.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/failte-ireland-chairman-resigns-after-travelling-to-italy-on-holiday-amid-irish-staycation-push-39451897.html Fáilte Ireland chairman resigns after travelling to Italy on holiday amid Irish staycation push] Irish Independent, 2020-08-15
16 August
The Licensed Vintners Association called for a Dublin pub to be shut down after videos emerged of customers and staff not adhering to COVID-19 guidelines.[https://www.thejournal.ie/lva-calls-for-berlin-d2-pub-to-be-shut-down-5177019-Aug2020/ Calls for Dublin bar to be shut down after 'outrageous' video shows them breaking Covid-19 rules] TheJournal.ie, 2020-08-16
Gardaí began an investigation after a woman lodged a complaint that she had been racially abused and pushed into Dublin's Royal Canal by a group of teenage boys.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0816/1159483-shelley-xiong-dublin-royal-canal/ 'I couldn't put up with this anymore' says woman pushed into canal] RTÉ News, 2020-08-16
17 August
CSO figures revealed that the volume of cars was returning to pre-pandemic levels, while the amount of lorries on roads was exceeding the same period for 2019.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40033634.html Volume of cars on Irish roads almost back to pre-pandemic levels] Irish Examiner, 2020-08-17
Simon Coveney stated that Ireland did not accept the result of the Belarusian presidential election and that he was "deeply concerned" about human rights abuses there.[https://www.thejournal.ie/simon-coveney-belarus-5178169-Aug2020/ Simon Coveney says Ireland does not accept the result of the Belarussian presidential election] TheJournal.ie, 2020-08-17
28,000 recipients failed to confirm their eligibility for the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0817/1159685-28-000-did-not-confirm-eligibility-for-pup/ 28,000 did not confirm eligibility for Pandemic Unemployment Payment] RTÉ News, 2020-08-17
18 August
CSO surveys revealed that almost two-thirds of businesses are concerned about another lockdown.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0818/1159828-businesses-are-worried-about-another-lockdown-cso/ Businesses are worried about another lockdown, according to CSO survey] RTÉ News, 2020-08-18
New measures to suppress the coronavirus were announced, including limiting the numbers at all public gatherings, with sports events to be held behind closed doors.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40034114.html New Garda powers and tighter restrictions on gatherings as Ireland sees 190 Covid-19 cases] Irish Examiner, 2020-08-18
Met Éireann issued a Status Orange wind warning for seven counties and warned of flooding ahead of the arrival of Storm Ellen.[https://www.thejournal.ie/yellow-wind-warning-3-5179054-Aug2020/ Storm Ellen to hit Ireland as Status Orange wind warning issued in seven counties] TheJournal.ie, 2020-08-18
19 August – Met Éireann issued a Status Red wind warning for County Cork as Storm Ellen approached Ireland.[https://www.thejournal.ie/storm-ellen-evelyn-cusack-5179538-Aug2020/ Storm Ellen: Status Red in Cork as motorists nationwide told to exercise caution] TheJournal.ie, 2020-08-19
20 August
Over 194,000 homes and businesses were left without power as Storm Ellen battered the country overnight, which led to fallen trees and flooding.[https://www.rte.ie/news/weather/2020/0820/1160202-storm-ellen/ 130,000 homes, businesses without power due to Storm Ellen, new warnings issued] RTÉ News, 2020-08-20
The Department of Education confirmed that buses for second-level students would run at 50% capacity, like all other public transport.[https://www.thejournal.ie/ireland-seconday-school-buses-reduced-capacity-covid-19-5181456-Aug2020/ Secondary school buses to run at 50% capacity only, government confirms] The Journal, 2020-08-20
Minister for Agriculture Dara Calleary apologised for attending a golf society event with more than 80 people, which breached public health guidelines.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/minister-dara-calleary-apologises-for-attending-golf-event-in-breach-of-health-guidelines-39466431.html Minister Dara Calleary apologises for attending golf event in breach of health guidelines] Irish Independent, 2020-08-20
It was revealed that Ireland's total population was estimated at 4.98 million, up nearly 5 percent when compared with the April 2016 census figure.[https://www.independent.ie/business/irish/population-growth-brings-both-challenges-and-opportunities-39468799.html Population growth brings both challenges and opportunities] Irish Independent, 2020-08-23
21 August
Minister for Agriculture Dara Calleary and Seanad Leas-Chathaoirleach Jerry Buttimer resigned after they attended an event which contravened public health advice.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0821/1160425-politics-dara-calleary/ Calleary, Buttimer resign over attending Clifden event] RTÉ News, 2020-08-21
The Government announced that COVID-19 restrictions in Kildare would be extended for another two weeks and that restrictions in Laois and Offaly would be lifted.[https://www.thejournal.ie/kildare-lockdown-5181846-Aug2020/ Restrictions to remain in place in Kildare for two weeks but lifted for Laois and Offaly] TheJournal.ie, 2020-08-21
The Department of Education introduced changes to the format of the Junior and Leaving Certificate exams and course work for 2021.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0821/1160569-leaving-cert-changes/ Department introduces changes to 2021 Leaving Cert and Junior Cert] RTÉ News, 2020-08-21
22 August
Opposition parties demanded for the Dáil to be recalled early to address both the political fallout from the golf event and the Government strategy to tackle COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0822/1160647-golf-dinner-coronavirus/ Opposition seeks early return to Dáil amid fallout over golf event] RTÉ News, 2020-08-22
A 23-year-old female inmate became the first prisoner in the Irish prison system to be diagnosed with coronavirus.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/health/homeless-woman-23-first-irish-prisoner-to-be-diagnosed-with-coronavirus-39470033.html Homeless woman (23) first Irish prisoner to be diagnosed with coronavirus] Irish Independent, 2020-08-22
Around 500 people attended an anti-lockdown rally organised by the Yellow Vests Ireland group at Custom House Quay in Dublin.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/gardai-arrest-four-men-at-anti-lockdown-protest-in-dublin-1014734.html Gardaí arrest four men at anti-lockdown protest in Dublin] Breaking News, 2020-08-22
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly confirmed that the passenger locator form would move to an online process on Wednesday 26 August.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0822/1160719-passenger-locator-form/ Passenger locator form is online from 26 August, confirms Minister] RTÉ News, 2020-08-22
Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Leo Varadkar asked EU Commissioner Phil Hogan to 'consider his position', following his attendance at a controversial golf dinner.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/taoiseach-and-t%C3%A1naiste-urge-hogan-to-consider-his-position-after-golf-dinner-1.4336813 Taoiseach and Tánaiste urge Hogan to ‘consider his position’ after golf dinner] Irish Times, 2020-08-22
23 August
The Government agreed to recall the Dáil early following opposition demands to return to deal with the response to the coronavirus crisis and to the golf event.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0822/1160727-dail-to-be-recalled/ Dáil to be recalled early after schools reopen, Coalition leaders confirm] RTÉ News, 2020-08-23
A spokesperson confirmed that Phil Hogan would not be resigning as EU Commissioner after his attendance at a controversial golf society dinner.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0823/1160782-phil-hogan/ EU Commissioner Phil Hogan not resigning - spokesperson] RTÉ News, 2020-08-23
Philip Nolan of the NPHET Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group said that 100 children aged between 5 and 14 tested positive for COVID-19 in the last two weeks.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0823/1160804-ireland-coronavirus/ 100 children in Ireland test positive for virus in last two weeks - NPHET] RTÉ News, 2020-08-23
It was reported that Ireland's EU Commissioner Phil Hogan was stopped by gardaí for using his mobile phone while driving in Kildare on 17 August.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0823/1160782-phil-hogan/ Hogan stopped by gardaí for using phone while driving in Kildare en route to Galway] RTÉ News, 2020-08-23
Gardaí began an investigation after a woman in her 80s was killed in an assault in Clontarf, Dublin. A man in his 60s was arrested at the scene.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0823/1160842-garda-investigation-after-woman-killed-in-assault-at-ho/ Elderly woman killed in assault at house in north Dublin] RTÉ News, 2020-08-23
24 August
Dara Calleary resigned as Deputy leader of Fianna Fáil and as national secretary of the party.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0824/1160924-dara-calleary/ Dara Calleary resigns as Fianna Fáil's deputy leader] RTÉ News, 2020-08-24
Met Éireann issued a Status Orange rainfall warning and two Status Yellow warnings for wind and rain as Storm Francis approached.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0823/1160784-rain-and-wind-warnings/ Flash flooding likely as Storm Francis brings 'intense rainfall'] RTÉ News, 2020-08-24
It was announced that former Chief Justice Susan Denham would carry out a review into the attendance of Supreme Court Justice Séamus Woulfe at a golfing event.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0824/1161007-seamus-woulfe/ Supreme Court orders review into Woulfe attendance at golf event] RTÉ News, 2020-08-24
25 August
Children and teenagers began returning to school as the phased reopening of schools in Ireland began after six months of closure due to COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0825/1161089-school-workers-unions/ Children return to school after six months away] RTÉ News, 2020-08-25
Emergency services evacuated the Department of Health after a suspicious package was discovered.[https://www.thejournal.ie/suspicious-package-discovered-at-department-of-health-in-dublin-5185408-Aug2020/ Department of Health evacuated after suspicious package discovered] TheJournal.ie, 2020-08-25
EU Commissioner Phil Hogan told RTÉ News that he broke no regulations while in Ireland, was no risk to anybody but made big mistakes and was very embarrassed.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0825/1161161-phil-hogan/ Hogan says he broke no regulations but made mistakes] RTÉ News, 2020-08-25
Education Minister Norma Foley stated that students who refuse to wear a face covering, other than for medical reasons, would be sent home from secondary schools.[https://www.thejournal.ie/face-masks-irish-schools-5186366-Aug2020/ Students who refuse to wear face masks will be sent home from secondary schools, Norma Foley says] TheJournal.ie, 2020-08-26
26 August
Education Minister Norma Foley announced that the postponed Leaving Certificate exams would commence on Monday 16 November.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/76539-minister-foley-announces-postponed-2020-leaving-certificate-examinations-to-commence-on-16-november-2020/ Minister Foley announces postponed 2020 Leaving Certificate examinations to commence on 16 November 2020] Gov.ie, 2020-08-26
Phil Hogan resigned as EU Trade Commissioner in light of the Oireachtas Golf Society scandal.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0826/1161515-hogan/ Phil Hogan resigns from EU role following golf controversy] RTÉ News, 2020-08-26
27 August
The Taoiseach discussed the appointment of a new EU Commissioner with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0827/1161667-politics-reaction/ Government leaders to discuss Hogan successor] RTÉ News, 2020-08-27
The National Public Health Emergency Team is to recommend that the government don't reopen pubs on 31 August.[https://www.thejournal.ie/pubs-wont-be-reopening-on-monday-5187772-Aug2020/ Pubs in Ireland won't be re-opening next week] TheJournal.ie, 2020-08-27
28 August
The Government agreed legislation that would give gardaí the power to shut pubs that are not adhering to public health guidelines.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0828/1161777-coronavirus/ Cabinet agree legislation to give gardaí stronger powers to shut pubs] RTÉ News, 2020-08-28
Aptar manufacturing factory in Ballinasloe confirmed that it would cease operations by December 2020 with the loss of 115 jobs.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0828/1161945-job-losses/ 115 jobs to go at manufacturing facility in Galway] RTÉ News, 2020-08-28
Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe encouraged employers to register for the new Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme from 1 September 2020.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/ae236-minister-donohoe-encourages-employers-to-avail-of-the-new-employment-wage-subsidy-scheme/ Minister Donohoe encourages employers to avail of the new Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme] Department of Finance, 2020-08-28
31 August – Specific COVID-19 restrictions in County Kildare were lifted "with immediate effect".[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0831/1162302-coronavirus-ireland/ Kildare Covid-19 restrictions lifted with immediate effect] RTÉ News, 2020-08-31

= September =

1 September
A Dublin primary school class was sent home after one pupil tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/education/2020/0901/1162526-coronavirus-school/ Class sent home from Dublin school after positive Covid-19 case] RTÉ News, 2020-09-01
The Government leaders agreed to submit two nominees for the position of European Commissioner following Phil Hogan's resignation.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0831/1162423-eu-commissioner-nominee/ Govt leaders expected to nominate man and woman for EU post] RTÉ News, 2020-09-01
Over 22,100 employers registered for the new Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme which commenced, replacing the Temporary COVID-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0901/1162413-ewss-wage-subsidy-scheme/ Revenue confirms 22,000 employers registered for Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme] RTÉ News, 2020-09-01
Education Minister Norma Foley announced that 17% of Leaving Certificate grades calculated by schools would be reduced and 4% would be increased.[https://www.thejournal.ie/school-profiling-leaving-cert-standardisation-5192382-Sep2020/ Leaving Cert 2020: 17% of teacher-predicted grades reduced; 4% increased] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-01
2 September
Taoiseach Micheál Martin nominated Charlie McConalogue to replace Dara Calleary as Agriculture Minister.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40042034.html Taoiseach appoints Charlie McConalogue as his third Minister for Agriculture] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-02
A second Dublin primary school class was sent home after a number of pupils tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0902/1162821-dublin-school/ Pupils sent home from second Dublin school after Covid-19 case] RTÉ News, 2020-09-02
A primary school in County Clare closed for one week after a number of staff members were identified as close contacts of a case of COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0902/1162868-clare-school/ Clare school shuts for week over link to Covid-19 case] RTÉ News, 2020-09-02
3 September
The Government launched the Stay and Spend Scheme to help drive sales in the hospitality sector during the off-season which have been impacted as a result of COVID-19.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/480d9-government-launches-the-stay-and-spend-scheme-to-support-the-hospitality-sector/ Government launches the Stay and Spend Scheme to support the Hospitality Sector] Gov.ie, 2020-09-03
The HSE said around 1,000 people who have been scheduled for COVID-19 tests do not show up.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0903/1162903-nphet-meeting-virus-spreads/ 1,000 people a day fail to show for Covid-19 testing - HSE] RTÉ News, 2020-09-03
4 September
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar stated that the rule requiring restaurants to keep details of customer food orders was designed to "crack down" on COVID-19 regulation breaches.[https://www.thejournal.ie/lack-of-communication-new-pub-rules-5195254-Sep2020/ Requirement to keep food details designed to 'crack down' on misbehaving pubs, Varadkar says] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-04
The Government named Mairead McGuinness and Andrew McDowell as Ireland's nominees to fill the vacant EU Commissioner role.[https://www.thejournal.ie/ireland-european-commission-nominees-replacement-phil-hogan-5192827-Sep2020/ Mairead McGuinness and Andrew McDowell set to be Ireland's nominees to replace Phil Hogan as EU Commissioner] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-04
5 September – Church bells rang out across the country in celebration of National Services Day.[https://www.thejournal.ie/national-services-day-ireland-covid-19-5196406-Sep2020/ Covid-19 forces socially distanced celebrations for National Services Day] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-05
6 September – Draft guidelines for the reopening of pubs that do not serve food with strict table service policies were drawn up by the Government and Fáilte Ireland.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0906/1163545-pubs-guidelines/ Draft guidelines for reopening of pubs drawn up] RTÉ News, 2020-09-06
7 September
Over 61,000 students received their Leaving Certificate exam results with grades significantly higher than any other year on record.[https://www.rte.ie/news/education/2020/0907/1163563-leaving-cert/ Record high results for Leaving Certificate class of 2020] RTÉ News, 2020-09-07
A school in Cork City confirmed a positive case of COVID-19.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40044455.html Cork School confirms positive case of Covid-19] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-07
New figures revealed that Ireland was officially in recession after the economy shrank by 6.1%, the largest quarterly drop on record, between April and June.[https://www.thejournal.ie/gdp-ireland-5197914-Sep2020/ Ireland now officially in recession after largest ever quarterly GDP drop] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-07
The Government launched the €2 billion Credit Guarantee Scheme to provide Irish businesses with access to low cost loans as they respond to the impacts of COVID-19.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/c8047-2-billion-covid-19-credit-guarantee-scheme-open/ €2 billion COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme open] Gov.ie, 2020-09-07
8 September
The Government announced that pubs not serving food in Ireland could reopen on 21 September with strict regulations in place.[https://www.thejournal.ie/wet-pubs-reopening-5198647-Sep2020/ Pubs given green light to reopen from 21 September] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-08
Mairead McGuinness was nominated as European Commissioner for Financial Stability, Financial Services and the Capital Markets Union.[https://www.thejournal.ie/irelands-new-commissioner-5198619-Sep2020/ Mairead McGuinness chosen as new European Commissioner for Financial Services as Ireland loses Trade portfolio] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-08
9 September – The Taoiseach told the British Prime Minister that its proposed breach of international law on the Northern Ireland Brexit protocol was utterly unacceptable.[https://www.independent.ie/business/brexit/breach-of-international-law-would-be-unacceptable-says-taoiseach-39519126.html Breach of international law would be unacceptable, says Taoiseach] Irish Independent, 2020-09-09
10 September – NPHET recommended that new household restrictions be introduced in Dublin to address rising numbers of COVID-19 cases in the capital.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/coronavirus-new-household-restrictions-should-be-introduced-in-dublin-says-nphet-1.4351584 Coronavirus: New household restrictions should be introduced in Dublin, says NPHET] Irish Times, 2020-09-10
11 September
CAO points for entry into most college courses increased significantly as 54,000 applicants received offers for third-level places.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/cao-points-for-most-college-courses-surge-with-some-seeing-80-point-hikes-new-figures-show-1.4352521 CAO points for most college courses surge with some seeing 80-point hikes, new figures show] Irish Times, 2020-09-11
The Department of Justice and the HSE confirmed that widespread COVID-19 testing would begin in all direct provision centres from 12 September.[https://www.thejournal.ie/widespread-testing-at-direct-provision-centres-5202494-Sep2020/ Widespread Covid-19 testing to begin tomorrow in all direct provision centres] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-11
12 September
The Taoiseach said that the government would have "no hesitation" in implementing restrictions for Dublin if cases continue to rise.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40047629.html Government 'won't be afraid' to introduce Covid-19 restrictions in Dublin if necessary - Taoiseach] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-12
Around 3,000 attended two anti-mask protests organised by the Yellow Vests Ireland group at Custom House Quay in Dublin.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40047719.html Thousands attend anti-mask protest in Dublin; HSE dismiss doctor's 'Covid-19 not as harmful as flu' claim] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-12
13 September
Simon Coveney said trust had been "eroded" due to the British government's intent to override elements of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement.[https://www.rte.ie/news/brexit/2020/0913/1164899-brexit/ Trust between EU and UK 'damaged', says Coveney] RTÉ News, 2020-09-13
Gardaí began an investigation of an assault of an activist following anti-mask protests outside Leinster House on 12 September.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0913/1164933-dublin-protest-assault/ Woman assaulted during Covid protest in Dublin] RTÉ News, 2020-09-13
Gardaí increased high visibility patrols in Dublin to support the public health guidelines in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19.[https://www.thejournal.ie/increased-garda-patrols-dublin-5203743-Sep2020/ Gardaí increase patrols in Dublin as Covid-19 cases rise] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-13
14 September
The Book of Kells received a new state-of-the-art display case which will allow for every page of the manuscript to be displayed on a rotating basis.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/book-of-kells-new-state-of-the-art-display-is-unveiled-39528585.html Book of Kells new state-of-the-art display is unveiled] Irish Independent, 2020-09-14
The self-isolation period for patients who test positive for COVID-19 was reduced from 14 days to 10 days.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40048640.html Self-isolation period for confirmed Covid-19 cases reduced to 10 days] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-14
15 September
The Government postponed the 2021 population census until April 2022, under advice from the Central Statistics Office, because of health and logistical obstacles caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/0915/1165339-cso-census-2021/ Census 2021 postponed until 2022 due to Covid-19] RTÉ News, 2020-09-15.
The Government launched its medium-term plan to help the country live with COVID-19, saying that the entire country was currently at Level 2 of the five-level framework.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40049090.html Living with Covid: Ireland at Level 2 under government's new plan] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-15.
The entire Cabinet and the Acting Chief Medical Officer restricted their movements after Health Minister Stephen Donnelly underwent a COVID-19 test which was negative.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40049429.html Cabinet and CMO self-isolating as Stephen Donnelly seeks Covid-19 test] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-15.
16 September – The highest number of Leaving Certificate appeals on record were lodged this year by students unhappy with their calculated grades.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40050203.html Record number of appeals lodged by Leaving Cert students] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-16
17 September – Germany and Poland were among seven countries included on the Government's updated travel green list, while Greece and Italy were removed.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40050596.html Just seven countries to be included on updated travel 'Green List'] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-17
18 September
The Taoiseach announced that Dublin would move to Level 3 restrictions from midnight and will remain in place for three weeks until 9 October.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/bcb4a-dublin-city-and-county-placed-on-level-3-of-the-framework-for-restrictive-measures/ Dublin city and county placed on Level 3 of the Framework for Restrictive Measures] Gov.ie, 2020-09-18
Gardaí began an investigation of an assault after a woman threw a smoothie in the face of the Tánaiste Leo Varadkar.[https://www.thejournal.ie/leo-varadkar-drink-thrown-5208603-Sep2020/ 'I thought it was Avril Lavigne at first': Varadkar laughs off incident where woman threw smoothie on him] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-18
19 September
President Michael D. Higgins announced the death of his dog Síoda following a short illness.[https://www.thejournal.ie/sioda-micheal-d-higgins-dog-passses-away-5209286-Sep2020/ President Higgins' dog Síoda dies following short illness] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-19
Garda checkpoints were mounted across Dublin City and County as Operation Fanacht recommenced following the imposition of Level 3 restrictions.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40051490.html Dublin lockdown: Checkpoints and additional gardaí to be brought in as level 3 restrictions begin] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-19
20 September – The main trade union for secondary school teachers, the ASTI, confirmed it would ballot for industrial action over concerns about staff safety.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/teachers-union-to-ballot-for-industrial-action-over-covid-19-safety-concerns-1018426.html Teachers' union to ballot for industrial action over Covid-19 safety concerns] Breaking News, 2020-09-20
21 September
Publicans outside Dublin opened their premises for the first time in months, with the lifting of restrictions on bars outside the capital.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0921/1166443-pubs-reopening/ Pubs around country reopening for first time in six months] RTÉ News, 2020-09-21
The Acting Chief Medical Officer raised concerns about the level of COVID-19 in counties Louth, Donegal and Waterford.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0921/1166434-ireland-virus/ Limiting contacts key to getting cases down - Nolan] RTÉ News, 2020-09-21
Gardaí began a criminal investigation after a large crowd not abiding by COVID-19 restrictions gathered on the night of 19 September in Dublin.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/gardaí-investigate-rave-in-dublin-flats-attended-by-large-crowd-1.4359993 Gardaí investigate rave in Dublin flats attended by large crowd] The Irish Times, 2020-09-21
23 September
The Tánaiste, Foreign Affairs Minister and Finance Minister restricted their movements under COVID-19 public health advice.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0923/1166936-politics-coronavirus/ Four Cabinet ministers restricting movements] RTÉ News, 2020-09-23
A specialist in infectious diseases warned that Ireland was at the beginning of a second wave of COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0923/1166912-covid19-committee-coronavirus/ Warning that Ireland at start of second virus wave] RTÉ News, 2020-09-23
24 September
The Health Service Executive (HSE) launched its €600 million Winter Plan to help tackle the challenges posed by COVID-19.[https://www.thejournal.ie/ireland-hse-winter-flu-plan-5213655-Sep2020/ Ireland's Winter Plan: 500 new acute beds and an 'unprecedented' €600m boost on last year] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-24
The Taoiseach announced that County Donegal would move to Level 3 restrictions from the midnight of 25 September and will remain in place for three weeks until 16 October.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0924/1167306-covid-donegal/ Level 3 virus restrictions announced for Donegal] RTÉ News, 2020-09-24
25 September
Garda checkpoints were mounted across County Donegal from midnight as Operation Fanacht recommenced following the imposition of Level 3 restrictions.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/operation-fanacht-to-come-into-place-tonight-in-donegal-39562662.html Operation Fanacht to come into place tonight in Donegal] Irish Independent, 2020-09-25
Higher Education Minister Simon Harris announced that all higher education institutions were asked to deliver lectures remotely where possible for the next two weeks.[https://www.thejournal.ie/covid19-higher-education-5214779-Sep2020/ Colleges and universities told to move most lectures online for next two weeks] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-25
The Taoiseach announced that localised restrictions may be implemented to stem the rise of COVID-19 cases in Cork, Waterford, Limerick and Galway.[https://www.thejournal.ie/martin-localised-retractions-5214621-Sep2020/ Taoiseach warns local restrictions may be needed in four counties as cases rise] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-25
An outbreak of COVID-19 on a ward at the Regional Hospital Mullingar was confirmed after a number of patients tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0925/1167517-mullingar-hospital-covid/ Coronavirus outbreak on ward at Regional Hospital Mullingar] RTÉ News, 2020-09-25
26 September
Donegal officially entered Level 3 restrictions which came into effect to curb the rising spread of COVID-19.[https://www.thejournal.ie/donegal-level-3-covid-19-restrictions-begin-5214455-Sep2020/ Donegal enters Level 3 restrictions after recent spike in Covid-19 cases] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-26
In a video message, the Acting Chief Medical Officer announced that further restrictions may be implemented in other areas in Ireland, but it was not inevitable.[https://www.thejournal.ie/further-restrictions-in-other-counties-not-inevitable-5215543-Sep2020/ Further restrictions in other counties 'not inevitable', says Acting Chief Medical Officer] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-26
27 September – Republican prisoners in Portlaoise Prison started a two-week hunger strike in support of a Palestinian doctor they claimed was being housed in "appalling conditions" at Maghaberry Prison in Antrim.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/republican-prisoners-in-portlaoise-go-on-hunger-strike-in-support-of-palestinian-doctor-1019172.html Republican prisoners in Portlaoise go on hunger strike in support of Palestinian doctor] Breaking News, 2020-09-27
28 September – SIPO was asked to investigate the legality of former Minister Michael D'Arcy's appointment to an investment fund lobby group.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40056377.html Leo Varadkar under pressure to explain Michael D'Arcy appointment] Irish Examiner, 2020-09-28
29 September – A multi-agency meeting took place in Galway to discuss public health concerns after hundreds of students congregated in the city on the night of 28 September.[https://www.rte.ie/news/connacht/2020/0929/1168130-galway-crowds/ Condemnation of large crowds gathered in Galway city] RTÉ News, 2020-09-29
30 September – Education Minister Norma Foley apologised after two coding errors were identified in the Leaving Certificate calculated grades system.[https://www.thejournal.ie/leaving-cert-norma-foley-5218969-Sep2020/ Leaving Cert: About 6,500 students set to receive higher grades after coding error] TheJournal.ie, 2020-09-30

= October =

1 October
NPHET recommended to Government that a maximum of six people only from a single household should be allowed visit another home nationwide.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/nphet-recommends-new-restrictions-on-household-visits-for-entire-country-39579552.html Nphet recommends new restrictions on household visits for entire country] Irish Independent, 2020-10-01
A report concluded that Supreme Court judge Séamus Woulfe "did not break any law or...breach any guidelines" in attending the Oireachtas Golf Society event in August.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/report-finds-it-would-be-disproportionate-for-seamus-woulfe-to-have-to-resign-over-golfgate-39579254.html Report finds it would be disproportionate for Seamus Woulfe to have to resign over 'Golfgate'] Irish Independent, 2020-10-01
2 October – Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe announced that the budget deficit would be less than the predicted €30bn due better than forecast income tax returns.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/1002/1169029-third-quarter-exchequer-figures/ Budget deficit will not run to €30bn - Minister for Finance] RTÉ News, 2020-10-02
3 October – A review into the Leaving Certificate calculated grades system found a third error in the coding used to standardise results.[https://www.rte.ie/news/education/2020/1003/1169207-leaving-cert-calculated-grades/ Improved marks for 6,100 Leaving Cert students] RTÉ News, 2020-10-03
4 October – NPHET recommended to Government the highest level of restrictions for the entire country – Level 5.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1004/1169272-coronarvirus-ireland/ NPHET recommends Level 5 restrictions for entire country] RTÉ News, 2020-10-04
5 October
The GAA and LGFA paused all club fixtures "with immediate effect and until further notice" in light of NPHET's latest recommendations.[https://www.the42.ie/gaa-cancel-club-activity-5223953-Oct2020/ GAA suspends all club games with immediate effect until further notice] The 42, 2020-10-05
The Cabinet rejected NPHET's recommendation to place the entire country under Level 5 restrictions, instead moving the entire country to Level 3 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1005/1169441-coronavirus-ireland/ Covid-19: Govt approves Level 3 restrictions nationwide] RTÉ News, 2020-10-05
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar stated that the recommendation from NPHET to move to Level 5 "hadn't been thought through and there hadn't been prior consultation".[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1005/1169652-covid-19/ Tánaiste says NPHET recommendation 'not thought through'] RTÉ News, 2020-10-05
6 October – It was confirmed that 31 people had tested positive for COVID-19 at Kilminchy Lodge Nursing Home in Portlaoise.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40060319.html Nursing home confirms 31 cases of Covid-19 among residents and staff] Irish Examiner, 2020-10-06
7 October
Large-scale Garda checkpoints were mounted across the country as Operation Fanacht recommenced following the imposition of Level 3 restrictions.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/gardai-to-put-up-132-checkpoints-across-the-country-to-ensure-compliance-with-level-3-lockdown-guidelines-39594074.html Gardaí to put up 132 checkpoints across the country to ensure compliance with Level 3 lockdown guidelines] Irish Independent, 2020-10-06
It was confirmed that the Government was considering the introduction of fines to deter people from breaking COVID-19 travel restrictions.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40060571.html Taoiseach suggests fines may be on cards for breaking Covid-19 travel restrictions] Irish Examiner, 2020-10-07
The Dáil voted to pass to committee stage the Dying with Dignity Bill proposed by Deputy Gino Kenny. A Government amendment to establish a special committee to examine assisted dying was voted down; the bill will instead be examined by one of the existing Oireachtas committees.[https://www.imt.ie/news/debate-dying-dignity-bill-2020-resumes-07-10-2020/ Debate on Dying with Dignity Bill 2020 resumes] Irish Medical Times, 2020-10-07.[https://www.thejournal.ie/dying-with-dignity-bill-voted-through-to-committee-stage-5227068-Oct2020/ The Dying with Dignity Bill has been voted to committee stage] The Journal, 2020-10-07.
8 October
The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that from 12 October, there will be no countries on the Government's travel Green List.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1008/1170327-green-list-countries/ No countries will be on Green List from Monday] RTÉ News, 2020-10-08
A secondary school in Longford announced its closure due to a confirmed case of COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/leinster/2020/1008/1170324-longford-school-closed/ Longford secondary school closes due to confirmed Covid-19 case] RTÉ News, 2020-10-08
The number of cases of COVID-19 in Ireland passed 40,000.[https://www.newstalk.com/news/coronavirus-national-total-above-40000-1087941 Coronavirus: 506 new cases take national total above 40,000] Newstalk, 2020-10-08
The four Archbishops of Ireland called a meeting with the Taoiseach to allow people return to Mass under Level 3 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1008/1170369-archbishops/ Archbishops to ask Taoiseach to let people go to Mass despite restrictions] RTÉ News, 2020-10-08
9 October
The Department of Education announced that no decision has been made in relation to extending school closures over the mid-term break by one week.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/coronavirus-extended-mid-term-break-discussed-but-plan-for-now-is-to-keep-schools-open-1.4376499 Coronavirus: Extended mid-term break discussed but plan for now is to keep schools open] The Irish Times, 2020-10-09
A survey by the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) revealed that more than 3.3 million bednight bookings were lost following the Government's escalation to Level 3 restrictions.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-40062329.html More than three million bookings lost following Level 3 escalation] Irish Examiner, 2020-10-09
A business group of 2,500 businesses in Dublin urged consumers to start their Christmas shopping early to prevent large queues in December.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/1009/1170436-dublin-town-christmas-shopping/ Consumers urged to start Christmas shopping to minimise December queues] RTÉ News, 2020-10-09
The Cabinet COVID-19 sub-committee agreed to introduce fines for non-compliance with COVID-19 rules, with laws being drafted by the Ministers for Health and Justice.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1009/1170400-covid-19/ Graduated fines on the way for breaking Covid rules] RTÉ News, 2010-10-09
University College Cork confirmed several cases of COVID-19 amongst students in a UCC-run student accommodation.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40062410.html Covid cases confirmed in UCC-run student accommodation] Irish Examiner, 2020-10-09
10 October – Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan expressed worry after 1,012 new cases of COVID-19 were notified in a 24-hour period.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1010/1170649-holohan-transmission-interrupt-virus/ CMO expresses 'worry' as 1,012 new Covid-19 cases in 24 hours] RTÉ News, 2020-10-10
11 October – Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said there was no plan to extend the school mid-term break in an effort to curb the rising COVID-19 numbers.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/it-is-not-going-to-be-extended-donnelly-says-midterm-break-won-t-be-longer-than-a-week-1.4377888 ‘It is not going to be extended’ - Donnelly says midterm break won’t be longer than a week] Irish Times, 2020-10-11
12 October – The High Court rejected a third attempt by France to extradite Ian Bailey for the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier.[https://www.rte.ie/news/courts/2020/1012/1170971-bailey-court/ Court rejects French attempt to extradite Ian Bailey] RTÉ News, 2020-10-12.
13 October
The biggest giveaway budget in history saw overall Government spending increase to €106bn, including a €3.4 billion recovery fund in the event of a Level 5 lockdown.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40064387.html Daniel McConnell: Spend, spend, spend - but no champagne corks popping] Irish Examiner, 2020-10-13.
The Garda Commissioner Drew Harris was restricting his movements following contact with a Garda officer who subsequently tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/garda-commissioner-drew-harris-among-senior-management-at-hq-restricting-movements-after-officer-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-39620546.html Garda Commissioner Drew Harris among senior management at HQ restricting movements after officer tests positive for coronavirus] Irish Independent, 2020-10-13.
14 October
Planning permission was granted by Cork City Council for a new €140m development at the old Port of Cork site that will include Ireland's tallest building.[https://www.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/34-storey-complex-in-cork-set-to-become-irelands-tallest-building-39624302.html 34 storey complex in Cork set to become Ireland's tallest building] Irish Independent, 2020-10-14.
The Cabinet agreed a ban on all household visits nationwide, while Donegal, Cavan and Monaghan were also moved to Level 4 restrictions.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/cabinet-agrees-nationwide-ban-on-visits-to-households-almost-all-circumstances-1.4380616 Cabinet agrees nationwide ban on visits to households almost all circumstances] Irish Times, 2020-10-14.
15 October – Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney said a Brexit deal between the UK and the EU is "in sight" and could be reached by the start of November.[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/brexit-deal-in-sight-says-simon-coveney-1020885.html Brexit deal in sight, says Simon Coveney] Breaking News, 2020-10-15.
16 October – NPHET recommended to Government to move the entire country to Level 5 restrictions for six weeks.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1016/1171882-coronavirus-ireland/ NPHET recommends move to Level 5 for six weeks] RTÉ News, 2020-10-16
17 October
NPHET officials briefed the three leaders of the Government to explain why they recommended moving the entire country to Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions for six weeks.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1017/1172124-government-meeting-level-5/ Government considering NPHET Level 5 recommendation] RTÉ News, 2020-10-17
Simon Coveney began restricting his movements after attending a meeting where Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.thejournal.ie/simon-coveney-restrict-movement-test-covid-19-austrian-minister-5236464-Oct2020/ Coveney restricting movements after attending same meeting as positive minister in Luxembourg] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-17
18 October – Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris said the Government will have to bring in more "decisive and nationwide" COVID-19 restrictions.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/new-coronavirus-restrictions-will-be-announced-tomorrow-simon-harris-39638111.html New coronavirus restrictions will be announced tomorrow - Simon Harris] Irish Independent, 2020-10-17
19 October
The Government agreed to move the entire country to Level 5 lockdown restrictions from midnight on Wednesday 21 October for six weeks until 1 December.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1019/1172397-coronavirus-ireland/ Cabinet agrees to impose Level 5 restrictions for six weeks from Wednesday] RTÉ News, 2020-10-19
Ireland's COVID Tracker app became one of the first wave of national apps linked with other countries across the European Union after being linked with similar contact tracing apps from Italy and Germany.[https://www.thejournal.ie/covid-tracker-app-5237727-Oct2020/ Ireland's Covid tracker app is now linked with similar contact tracing apps from Italy and Germany] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-19
The Garda Síochána confirmed that a senior officer received a notification of a positive test result of COVID-19 after attending a media briefing.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1019/1172546-garda-public-covid19/ Gardaí investigating after officer tests positive after attending event] RTÉ News, 2020-10-19
20 October
The Government agreed to give Gardaí new powers to fine people €1,000 who hold house parties and up to €500 who breach travel restrictions following the imposition of Level 5 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1020/1172618-cabinet-level-5-measures/ €500 on-the-spot fines for breaches of restrictions] RTÉ News, 2020-10-20
Aldi announced that they will be limiting customer purchases of Christmas toys on sale to one unit per customer and will introduce new safety measures for Christmas toy launch.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/aldi-limits-sale-of-certain-christmas-toys-to-one-unit-per-customer-as-store-marshals-to-enforce-rules-39645711.html Aldi limits sale of certain Christmas toys to one unit per customer as store marshals to enforce rules] Irish Independent, 2020-10-20
22 October
Schools nationwide were told to stop using ViraPro cleaning products and hand sanitisers, as they were being recalled because they contained methanol instead of ethanol.[https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/covid-19-ireland-today-schools-22898695 Covid-19 Ireland today: Schools told to stop using Vira Pro products, Tony Holohan's Christmas update and cases worry] Irish Mirror, 2020-10-22
The Government agreed to align Ireland with the new European 'traffic light' system to coordinate international COVID-19 travel restrictions coming into force on Sunday 8 November.[https://www.thejournal.ie/traffic-light-system-eu-travel-5241634-Oct2020/ EU traffic light system for international travel to commence in November] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-22
Gardaí began a major high visibility policing operation to support the new public health restrictions to curb the spread of COVID-19 with over 2,500 gardaí deployed every day on 132 static and mobile checkpoints nationwide, as Operation Fanacht recommenced following the imposition of Level 5 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1022/1173092-garda-restrictions/ Garda operation begins to support Covid restrictions] RTÉ News, 2020-10-22
A nursing home in Ahascragh, Ballinasloe, County Galway appealed to the HSE for emergency staff after 42 residents and staff tested positive for COVID-19, and one death confirmed.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1022/1173211-nursing-home-coronavirus/ Majority of residents and most staff at Galway nursing home have Covid] RTÉ News, 2020-10-22
23 October
The Government urged to ensure the essential retailers that are permitted to remain open during the Level 5 lockdown restrict their sales activities to essential items only after Retail Excellence, the largest retail body in Ireland, announced that some of its members made complaints that some large retailers were breaching the current restrictions by selling non-essential items while being allowed to stay open to sell essential items.[https://www.thejournal.ie/large-retailers-level-5-5242960-Oct2020/ Larger retailers 'abusing' Level 5 by remaining open for non-essential sales, retail group claims] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-23
The Dáil passed legislation empowering the Garda Síochána to impose new fines on people who breach COVID-19 regulations.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/1023/1173450-fines-legislation-covid-politics/ Dáil passes fines for people breaching Covid-19 regulations] RTÉ News, 2020-10-23
A nursing home in Moate, County Westmeath confirmed an outbreak of COVID-19 after 11 of 47 residents and four staff tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/westmeath-nursing-home-says-it-is-managing-covid-19-outbreak-with-15-cases-1.4389333 Westmeath nursing home says it is managing Covid-19 outbreak with 15 cases] The Irish Times, 2020-10-23
The HSE confirmed an outbreak of COVID-19 in an older persons' community residential facility in County Mayo after a number of residents and staff tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1023/1173544-nursing-home-covid/ Covid outbreak at Mayo residential facility for elderly] RTÉ News, 2020-10-23
24 October
Two wards including a psychiatric unit at Naas General Hospital was locked down after an outbreak of COVID-19 was confirmed which infected 9 patients and 18 staff.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/covid-outbreak-confirmed-on-two-wards-of-kildare-hospital-39663475.html Covid outbreak confirmed on two wards of Kildare hospital] Irish Independent, 2020-10-24
Four Fine Gael senators began self-isolating after two tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40070315.html Four Fine Gael senators in self-isolation after two test positive for Covid-19] Irish Examiner, 2020-10-24
25 October
The President signed into law the Health (Amendment) Bill 2020 allowing gardaí to issue graduated fines to people found to be in breach of the Level 5 COVID-19 regulations.[https://www.thejournal.ie/president-higgins-bill-fines-5244899-Oct2020/ President signs Bill allowing graduated fines for breaches in Covid-19 restrictions] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-25
A report published by Eurosurveillance revealed that passengers on a flight to Dublin during the summer led to the spread of 59 COVID-19 cases around the country.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40070591.html Flight into Dublin Airport linked to 59 Covid-19 cases] Irish Examiner, 2020-10-25
26 October – Gardaí began a murder-suicide investigation after a father and two sons died following a shooting incident at a farm outside Kanturk in County Cork.[https://www.rte.ie/news/munster/2020/1026/1173965-cork-shooting/ Three dead following shooting incident at Cork farm] RTÉ News, 2020-10-26
28 October
Gardaí investigating the shooting incident, which occurred on 26 October, looked at the possibility that the fatal shooting of 26-year-old Mark O'Sullivan may have been planned by his younger brother 23-year-old Diarmuid O'Sullivan over a period of time after a detailed 10-page note was discovered on the body of his younger brother.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1028/1174328-kanturk-deaths-cork/ Kanturk deaths: Detailed note found on body of Diarmuid O'Sullivan] RTÉ News, 2020-10-28
A candlelit vigil was held in honour of the mother and her two children who were found dead in a house in Dublin.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1028/1174455-bodies-found-in-dublin/ Vigil held for mother and children found dead in Dublin] RTÉ News, 2020-10-28
Ryanair announced it will only operate flights from Dublin Airport in Ireland from 14 November to 12 December, with all flights from regional airports suspended.[https://www.thejournal.ie/knock-airport-to-close-for-a-month-5247179-Oct2020/ Ryanair to suspend all flights from Irish regional airports for a month] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-28
29 October
Gardaí issued an appeal to motorists to slow down when approaching checkpoints as part of Operation Fanacht.[https://www.thejournal.ie/motorists-urged-to-slow-down-when-approaching-garda-checkpoints-5248062-Oct2020/ Motorists urged to slow down when approaching Garda checkpoints] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-29
Gardaí investigating the deaths of a 37-year-old mother, 11-year-old daughter and 6-year-old son at their Dublin home appealed for anyone with information to come forward.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/1029/1174565-dublin-deaths-rathfarnham-ballinteer/ Garda appeal over deaths of mother and two children in Dublin] RTÉ News, 2020-10-29
The Department of Education issued an urgent notice to schools that a further 52 sanitising products have been removed from its approved list following the recall of ViraPro sanitisers on 22 October.[https://www.thejournal.ie/schools-told-stop-using-52-santising-products-5248638-Oct2020/ Schools told to stop using more than 50 sanitising products following government review] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-29
30 October
Met Éireann issued a Status Orange wind warning for Halloween for 12 counties and warned of severe and damaging gusts of up to 130 km/h ahead of the arrival of Storm Aiden.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/storm-aiden-prompts-nationwide-weather-alerts-for-halloween-1.4395376 Storm Aiden prompts nationwide weather alerts for Halloween] The Irish Times, 2020-10-30
Gardaí launched a murder investigation into the deaths of a mother and two children who were discovered dead in a house in Ballinteer, Dublin on 28 October.[https://www.thejournal.ie/balinteer-deaths-murder-5249871-Oct2020/ Gardaí launch murder investigation over death of mother and two children in Ballinteer following post-mortem exams] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-30
The Irish Prison Service confirmed an outbreak of COVID-19 at the Midlands Prison after five inmates tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1030/1174982-covid-midlands-prison/ Covid-19 outbreak at Midlands Prison in Portlaoise] RTÉ News, 2020-10-30
The Office of Public Works announced that the perimeter gates of Phoenix Park would be closed on weekends for the remainder of Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/0f225-weekend-closure-of-vehicular-side-gates-of-phoenix-park-for-duration-of-level-5-covid-19-restrictions/# Weekend closure of Vehicular side gates of Phoenix Park for duration of Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions] Gov.ie, 2020-10-30
A new English-Irish dictionary produced by Foras na Gaeilge containing 1,800 pages, over 30,000 entries and 1.8 million words was published by President Michael D. Higgins.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1030/1174834-english-irish-dictionary/ First major English-Irish dictionary in 60 years published] RTÉ News, 2020-10-30
31 October
Over 8,000 homes and businesses were left without power as Storm Aiden battered the country with severe gusts of up to 130 km/h, which led to fallen trees and flooding.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/storm-aiden-strong-winds-leave-8-000-without-power-1.4396617 Storm Aiden: Strong winds leave 8,000 without power] The Irish Times, 2020-10-31
Dublin Fire Brigade received 398 fire-related calls on Halloween, making it the busiest night of 2020.[https://www.thejournal.ie/dublin-fire-brigade-halloween-dublin-fireworks-5251725-Nov2020/ Major spike in Halloween fire brigade call outs in Dublin] TheJournal.ie, 2020-10-31

= November =

1 November – The VAT reduction for the tourism and hospitality sector dropped from 13.5% to 9%, as part of Budget 2021.[https://www.thejournal.ie/vat-tourism-5249719-Nov2020/ VAT rate reduction for tourism and hospitality sector kicks in today] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-01
2 November – Additional measures were put in place at the Midlands Prison after 6 prison staff tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.thejournal.ie/six-staff-midlands-prison-outbreak-5252875-Nov2020/ Additional measures in place at Midlands Prison after six staff test positive] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-02
3 November – The Tánaiste apologised in the Dáil for "errors of judgement" after he gave a copy of a contract negotiated between the Government and the Irish Medical Organisation to the National Association of General Practitioners in April 2019.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/1103/1175590-varadkar-dail/ Varadkar apologises for 'errors of judgement' over leak] RTÉ News, 2020-11-03
4 November – An outbreak of COVID-19 was confirmed in a nursing home in County Kerry after 19 residents and staff tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/nineteen-residents-and-staff-in-co-kerry-nursing-home-test-positive-for-covid-19-1.4400036 Nineteen residents and staff in Co Kerry nursing home test positive for Covid-19] The Irish Times, 2020-11-04
7 November
Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan announced that anyone arriving into Ireland from Denmark would have to restrict their movements for 14 days over concerns of a new strain of coronavirus that emerged in Danish mink farms.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/passengers-arriving-from-denmark-will-have-to-restrict-movements-over-fears-of-new-covid-strain-39717851.html Passengers arriving from Denmark will have to restrict movements over fears of new Covid strain] Irish Independent, 2020-11-07
Locals in Joe Biden's ancestral home in Ballina, County Mayo celebrated as he defeated Donald Trump in the 2020 United States presidential election becoming the President-elect of the United States.[https://www.rte.ie/news/regional/2020/1107/1176632-joe-biden-ballina-mayo/ Ballina celebrates Joe Biden's victory in US election] RTÉ News, 2020-11-07
President Michael D. Higgins and Taoiseach Micheál Martin congratulated Joe Biden on his win as President-elect of the United States.[https://www.thejournal.ie/ireland-congratulates-joe-biden-us-president-win-5259228-Nov2020/ Irish leaders congratulate Joe Biden on presidential win] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-07
8 November
Eight gardaí were suspended from duty as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/1108/1176711-an-garda-siochana/ Eight gardaí suspended from duty in corruption inquiry] RTÉ News, 2020-11-08
The Government was criticised for a lack of clarity on what COVID-19 restrictions would apply at Christmas after the Chair of the Irish Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group Philip Nolan warned that strict limits would be needed on Christmas gatherings.[https://www.thejournal.ie/government-criticised-christmas-covid-5260090-Nov2020/ Government criticised on lack of clarity over Christmas Covid restrictions] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-08
Taoiseach Micheál Martin became the third Taoiseach to attend the Remembrance Day service in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh to commemorate the Remembrance Day bombing in 1987.[https://www.thejournal.ie/taoiseach-wreath-enniskillen-remembrance-day-5260010-Nov2020/ Taoiseach lays wreath in Enniskillen Remembrance Day service] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-08
The EU's traffic light system for air travel came into operation in Ireland from midnight, with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control publishing a three-stage colour system map every week to indicate the level of risk in each area of the EU.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1108/1176780-eu-traffic-light-air-travel/ EU 'traffic light' system for air travel takes off here] RTÉ News, 2020-11-08
15 November – Furious reactions emerged on social media after hundreds of people, in breach of Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions, gathered drinking takeaway pints on the streets of Dublin city centre on the night of 14 November.[https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/south-william-street-drinking-crowds-19283903 Disgraceful footage shows hundreds of drinkers throng South William Street with no masks or social distancing] Dublin Live, 2020-11-15
16 November – Fewer than 2,600 students participated in the postponed Leaving Certificate exams, which got underway.[https://www.rte.ie/news/education/2020/1116/1178330-leaving-certificate/ Postponed Leaving Cert exams to get under way] RTÉ News, 2020-11-16
19 November
The Health Service Executive (HSE) confirmed that no positive COVID-19 cases have been identified after testing took place of all workers at mink farms nationwide, following the discovery of a new strain of the coronavirus in minks in Denmark.[https://www.thejournal.ie/minlks-5272361-Nov2020/ HSE says no positive Covid-19 cases found in testing of mink farm workers and families] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-19
New figures released by the Garda Síochána shows that 29 retailers have been found in potential breach of Level 5 restrictions in November, as part of Operation Treoraím.[https://www.thejournal.ie/covid-19-retailers-breach-level-5-gardai-5272286-Nov2020/ 29 retailers found in alleged breach of Level 5 restrictions this month] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-19
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control moved Ireland from 'red' to 'orange' on the EU traffic light map for international travel after COVID-19 figures improved.[https://www.thejournal.ie/ireland-ecdc-traffic-light-map-5272166-Nov2020/ Ireland and the Canary Islands turn 'orange' on EU traffic light travel map] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-19
20 November
RTÉ's top news presenters apologised after being present at a gathering in Montrose where social distancing was not fully observed and presenters posed for photographs.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/1120/1179383-rte/ RTÉ presenters apologise over social distance breaches] RTÉ News, 2020-11-20
The Health Service Executive (HSE) confirmed that six residents of a County Kerry nursing home died after testing positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1120/1179441-nursing-homes/ Six nursing home residents in Co Kerry die after testing positive] RTÉ News, 2020-11-20
22 patients in a South Dublin hospital tested positive for COVID-19 after an outbreak emerged in the hospital.[https://www.thejournal.ie/coronavirus-outbreak-st-columcilles-hospital-dublin-5273007-Nov2020/ More than 20 patients test positive for Covid-19 in south Dublin hospital outbreak] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-20
22 November – Nine males were arrested in connection with a series of minor public order incidents in Cork after footage circulated on social media showing large groups of people without masks and not adhering to social distancing regulations in the city centre on the night of 21 November.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40087058.html Nine arrested in Cork City over public order incidents] Irish Examiner, 2020-11-22
23 November – The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) announced that children's toys which do not meet safety standards or regulations could be dangerous and should not be purchased after over 50,000 toys were destroyed.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1123/1179990-toy-safety/ Over 50,000 toys destroyed after safety standard checks] RTÉ News, 2020-11-23
24 November
Cinemas, galleries, museums, hairdressers, gyms and non-essential retail are expected to reopen from 1 December, under plans being considered on exiting the Level 5 lockdown.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/covid-19-museums-cinemas-hairdressers-expected-to-reopen-next-week-1.4417799 Covid-19: Museums, cinemas, hairdressers expected to reopen next week] The Irish Times, 2020-11-24
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar stated in the Dáil that a third wave of restrictions may be required in the new year after the Christmas holiday.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40088729.html January could see 'short' return to Level 3 restrictions: Tánaiste] Irish Examiner, 2020-11-24
The Health Service Executive (HSE) confirmed that outpatient appointments were cancelled at a hospital in Loughlinstown, Dublin after an outbreak of COVID-19 of 31 patients was confirmed.[https://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2020/1123/1179955-loughlinstown-hospital/ Covid-19 outbreak halts some services at Loughlinstown hospital] RTÉ News, 2020-11-24
The Department of Health and the Department of Justice announced that the new fines system, enforced by the Garda Síochána and first agreed on 9 October, would come into effect from December, with a €500 fine for organising an event, €150 for attending an event, €100 for breaching travel regulations and €80 for not wearing a face covering in shops and public transport.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/covid-fines-revealed-150-penalty-for-attending-a-house-party-and-80-sanction-for-not-wearing-a-mask-in-shops-or-on-public-transport-39786597.html Covid fines revealed: €150 penalty for attending a house party and €80 sanction for not wearing a mask in shops or on public transport] Irish Independent, 2020-11-24
Presentation College, Carlow generated controversy when it was revealed female pupils in all years had been told not to wear "tight clothing", including official uniform polo shirts, as it was "distracting" for male teachers. Male schoolmates were not spoken to about their clothing. A resulting petition generated 5,000 signatures within the day.[https://www.thejournal.ie/carlow-school-tight-clothing-5277734-Nov2020/ Female students at Carlow school 'told to not wear tight clothes to PE as it's distracting'] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-24
25 November
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar told the Fine Gael parliamentary party that the Government is considering advising people not to travel to Northern Ireland from later this week amid the worsening COVID-19 situation there.[https://www.thejournal.ie/nphet-to-meet-today-ahead-of-level-5-exit-5277471-Nov2020/ Government considering advising people against travel to Northern Ireland, says Tánaiste] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-25
The Health Service Executive (HSE) started to move residents out of a nursing home, where 8 residents died, in Listowel, County Kerry after an outbreak of COVID-19 was confirmed.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40089503.html Residents to be moved out of Kerry nursing home where eight died following Covid-19 outbreak] Irish Examiner, 2020-11-25
All staff and students at a Gaelscoil primary school in Glanmire, County Cork began restricting their movements until 8 December, after 17 cases of COVID-19 was confirmed there, resulting in the closure of the school.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40089407.html Officials continue investigation of Covid-19 outbreak at Cork school] Irish Examiner, 2020-11-25
26 November
NPHET recommended to Government that restaurants and pubs should only be allowed to offer takeaway and delivery service for the entire Christmas period.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/restaurants-and-pubs-should-only-be-allowed-to-offer-takeaway-over-christmas-nphet-says-39796129.html Restaurants and pubs should only be allowed to offer takeaway over Christmas - Nphet says] Irish Independent, 2020-11-26
More than 1.6 million people are to receive the Christmas Bonus from the State this year, with €390 million in total to be paid out.[https://www.thejournal.ie/christmas-bonus-6-5280213-Nov2020/ Christmas Bonus will be paid to over 1.6 million people in early December] TheJournal.ie, 2020-11-26
27 November
The Government agreed to move the entire country to Level 3 restrictions from midnight on Tuesday 1 December.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/hotels-retail-hairdressers-gyms-churches-to-open-next-tuesday-followed-by-restaurants-and-gastropubs-on-friday-1.4421156 Hotels, retail, hairdressers, gyms, churches to open next Tuesday, followed by restaurants and gastropubs on Friday] The Irish Times, 2020-11-27
The 2020 edition of The Late Late Toy Show aired, marking the 12th hosted by Ryan Tubridy and the 45th edition overall.[https://www.dublinlive.ie/whats-on/family-kids-news/ryan-tubridy-thrills-million-viewers-19362480 Ryan Tubridy thrills million viewers in 2020 Late Late Toy Show] DublinLive.ie, 2020-11-27
A 44-year-old man, Stephen Silver, was charged with the capital murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan, who was shot dead in Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June, and was remanded in custody to the Midlands Prison in Portlaoise to appear via video link before Harristown District Court on 4 December.[https://www.rte.ie/news/courts/2020/1127/1180891-colm-horkan-stephen-silver-court/ Man charged with capital murder of garda detective in June] RTÉ News, 2020-11-27

= December =

1 December
All non-essential retail shops, hair and beauty providers, gyms and leisure centres, cinemas, museums and galleries reopened after six weeks of closure.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1130/1181547-covid-retail-reopen/ Non-essential shops, hair salons, gyms back in business] RTÉ News, 2020-12-01
The Government approved an advance purchase agreement for 875,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine produced by Moderna.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1201/1181633-coronavirus-vaccine/ Cabinet approves purchase of 875,000 doses of Moderna Covid-19 vaccine] RTÉ News, 2020-12-01
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre issued new guidance around visits to nursing homes from 7 December.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1130/1181513-nursing-home-guidance/ Restrictions on nursing home visits relaxed in new guidance] RTÉ News, 2020-12-01
An outbreak of COVID-19 was confirmed at University Hospital Waterford.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40120547.html Covid-19 outbreak reported at University Hospital, Waterford] Irish Examiner, 2020-12-01
4 December – Thousands of restaurants, cafés, gastropubs and hotel restaurants reopened after six weeks of closure.[https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2020/1203/1182249-hospitality/ Restaurants, cafes and some pubs reopening] RTÉ News, 2020-12-04
5 December – Minister for Justice Helen McEntee announced that she was expecting a baby, which made her the first Cabinet member in the history of the State to announce her pregnancy while in office.[https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/1205/1182570-helen-mcentee/ McEntee announces pregnancy, in first for cabinet minister] RTÉ News, 2020-12-05
10 December – Christmas lights at Áras an Uachtaráin was turned on by President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina Higgins.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/1210/1183696-christmas-lights-aras-an-uachtarain/ Áras an Uachtaráin leaves a light on for the Irish abroad this Christmas] RTÉ News, 2020-12-10
11 December
Two primary schools in counties Laois and Mayo closed early for the Christmas holidays due to an increase in COVID-19 cases among students.[https://www.independent.ie/news/two-primary-schools-in-different-counties-shut-early-for-christmas-due-to-covid-19-39852295.html Two primary schools in different counties shut early for Christmas due to Covid-19] Irish Independent, 2020-12-11
The An Post Irish Book of the Year for 2020 was awarded to Doireann Ní Ghríofa for her book "A Ghost in the Throat".[https://www.thejournal.ie/irish-book-award-5296152-Dec2020/ The winner of the An Post Irish Book of the Year award has been announced] TheJournal.ie, 2020-12-11
12 December – A bakery in Drogheda, County Louth closed temporarily after around 15 employees tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/regional/2020/1212/1184069-drogheda-bakery-closure/ Drogheda bakery closes temporarily over Covid infections among staff] RTÉ News, 2020-12-12
15 December – Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly announced the Government's National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy, which outlines the country's high-level plan for safe, effective and efficient vaccination of the Republic of Ireland, while safeguarding continued provision of health and social care services.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/c89a9-minister-for-health-announces-national-covid-19-vaccination-strategy/ Minister for Health announces National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy] Gov.ie, 2020-12-15
16 December – All pupils at a primary school in Killorglin, County Kerry began to restrict their movements after 17 people tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/covid-19-all-pupils-at-kerry-school-told-to-remain-at-home-after-17-confirmed-cases-1.4438844 Covid-19: All pupils at Kerry school told to remain at home after 17 confirmed cases] The Irish Times, 2020-12-16
17 December
The Taoiseach tested negative for COVID-19 following an announcement that he was restricting his movements after coming into close contact with French President Emmanuel Macron who have tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/world/2020/1217/1184994-covid-europe-latest/ Taoiseach tests negative after Macron Covid diagnosis] RTÉ News, 2020-12-17
NPHET recommended to the Government that the period of relaxed COVID-19 restrictions from 18 December be shortened to the end of the year as COVID-19 cases rise.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/nphet-calls-for-tighter-restrictions-over-festive-period-as-484-covid-19-cases-three-more-deaths-reported-1.4439418 Nphet calls for tighter restrictions over festive period as 484 Covid-19 cases, three more deaths reported] The Irish Times, 2020-12-17
Minister for Education Norma Foley announced that schools would not close early for Christmas—nor will they reopen later than planned after Christmas—as there is no evidence or recommendation from public health authorities to do so.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/covid-19-schools-will-not-close-early-for-christmas-norma-foley-1.4439735 Covid-19: Schools will not close early for Christmas – Norma Foley] The Irish Times, 2020-12-17
18 December
The State formally apologised after 36 years to Joanne Hayes for wrongly accusing her in 1984 of the murder of a baby and for the "appalling hurt and distress caused."[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1218/1185272-joanne-hayes-kerry-apology/ Kerry Babies: 'Suffering finally behind us' says Hayes] RTÉ News, 2020-12-18.
The Taoiseach announced that the Government is "very minded" to accept NPHET's advice for a pre-New Year closure of the hospitality sector and the re-imposition of inter-county travel restrictions.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/government-very-minded-to-heed-advice-to-impose-restrictions-after-christmas-taoiseach-1.4440718 Government ‘very minded’ to heed advice to impose restrictions after Christmas - Taoiseach] The Irish Times, 2020-12-18
Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan warned that Ireland must take immediate action to stop the spread of COVID-19 over the Christmas period.[https://www.thejournal.ie/ireland-new-covid-19-restrictions-christmas-tony-holohan-warning-5304386-Dec2020/ Tony Holohan: 'Re-examine your plans and limit your social contacts as much as possible before Christmas'] TheJournal.ie, 2020-12-18
The Director-General of the Health Service Executive (HSE) Paul Reid announced that he expects to have hundreds of thousands of vaccine doses by the end of February 2021.[https://www.thejournal.ie/vaccine-ireland-5304145-Dec2020/ HSE expects to have hundreds of thousands of vaccine doses by end of Februar] TheJournal.ie, 2020-12-18
20 December
The Government agreed to impose a 48-hour suspension on flights from the United Kingdom from midnight following fears over the spread of a new strain of COVID-19, while ferries will be limited to freight travel.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/coronavirus-government-imposes-48-hour-travel-ban-from-britain-in-response-to-new-virus-strain-1.4442011 Coronavirus: Government imposes 48-hour travel ban from Britain in response to new virus strain] The Irish Times, 2020-12-20
Gardaí broke up an organised "car meet" of 800 people in more than 250 cars that breached COVID-19 regulations on the night of 19 December in Little Island, Cork.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1220/1185592-cork-gathering/ Gardaí break up gathering of 800 people at 'car meet' in Cork] RTÉ News, 2020-12-20
21 December
The Chair of the NPHET Irish Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group Philip Nolan announced that a third wave of COVID-19 in Ireland is clearly underway.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/health/were-clearly-now-in-a-third-wave-warning-comes-to-protect-loved-ones-as-727-covid-19-cases-confirmed-today-39889062.html ‘We’re clearly now in a third wave’ – warning comes to protect loved ones as 727 Covid-19 cases confirmed today] Irish Independent, 2020-12-21
The Garda Síochána announced it continues to detect breaches of COVID-19 regulations at licensed premises nationwide while a pub in the northwest of Ireland was given the first "Immediate Closure Order" by Gardaí under the COVID-19 Enforcement Powers Act 2020.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/crime/first-premises-given-closure-order-by-gardai-due-to-persistent-failure-to-serve-substantial-meals-39889001.html First premises given closure order by gardaí due to persistent failure to serve substantial meals] Irish Independent, 2020-12-21
22 December
The Government agreed to move the entire country to Level 5 lockdown restrictions with a number of adjustments from Christmas Eve until 12 January 2021 at the earliest.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/a1f21-ireland-placed-on-level-5-restrictions-of-the-plan-for-living-with-covid-19-with-a-number-of-specific-adjustments/ Ireland placed on Level 5 Restrictions of the Plan for Living with COVID-19 - with a number of specific adjustments] Gov.ie, 2020-12-22
23 December
The Chair of the NPHET Coronavirus Expert Advisory Group Cillian de Gascun announced that the new variant of COVID-19 in the United Kingdom is now present in the Republic of Ireland, based on a selection of samples analysed from the weekend.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/uk-variant-now-in-ireland-and-r-number-highest-since-march-as-13-further-deaths-and-938-new-cases-confirmed-39896032.html UK variant now in Ireland and R number highest since March as 13 further deaths and 938 new cases confirmed] Irish Independent, 2020-12-23
All ministers in the Government began restricting their movements after it was announced that Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue tested positive for COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/1223/1186087-ireland-virus-covid/ Agriculture Minister tests positive for Covid-19] RTÉ News, 2020-12-23
24 December – Restaurants, cafés, gastropubs, hairdressers, barbers and beauty salons closed again as Level 5 lockdown restrictions came into effect.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40196514.html Businesses to shut as latest Covid restrictions come into effect] Irish Examiner, 2020-12-24
25 December – Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan officially confirmed that the new variant of COVID-19 in the United Kingdom had been detected in the Republic of Ireland by whole genome sequencing at the National Virus Reference Laboratory in University College Dublin.[https://www.independent.ie/world-news/coronavirus/new-uk-variant-of-covid-19-confirmed-in-ireland-while-1025-new-cases-and-two-further-deaths-confirmed-39900087.html New UK variant of Covid-19 confirmed in Ireland while 1,025 new cases and two further deaths confirmed] Irish Independent, 2020-12-25
26 December – The first shipment of 10,000 Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines arrived in the Republic of Ireland.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/first-shipment-of-covid-19-vaccine-arrives-in-republic-1.4445852 First shipment of Covid-19 vaccine arrives in Republic] The Irish Times, 2020-12-26
27 December – A ban on inter-county travel and family gathering restrictions came into effect from midnight following the reintroduction of Level 5 restrictions.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/1227/1186579-covid-ireland-latest/ Inter-county travel and household restrictions in place] RTÉ News, 2020-12-27
29 December
A 79-year-old woman became the first person in the Republic of Ireland to receive the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine at St. James's Hospital, Dublin.[https://www.thejournal.ie/first-coronavirus-vaccine-ireland-5312217-Dec2020/ 79-year-old Dublin woman first in Republic of Ireland to get Covid-19 vaccine] TheJournal.ie, 2020-12-29
A new president and vice-president of the Garda Representative Association (GRA) were elected to their positions during a controversial online annual delegate meeting.[https://www.thejournal.ie/garda-elections-gra-sham-5312495-Dec2020/ New president and vice-president elected to garda body during controversial conference] TheJournal.ie, 2020-12-29
Pope Francis appointed Dermot Farrell as the new Archbishop of Dublin as Diarmuid Martin began his retirement from the role.[https://www.thejournal.ie/new-archbishop-of-dublin-appointed-5312315-Dec2020/ New Archbishop of Dublin appointed by Pope Francis] TheJournal.ie, 2020-12-29
30 December
The Government agreed to move the entire country to full Level 5 lockdown restrictions from midnight until 31 January 2021 at the earliest.[https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/066ce-ireland-placed-on-full-level-5-restrictions-of-the-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/ Ireland placed on full Level 5 Restrictions of the Plan for Living with COVID-19] Gov.ie, 2020-12-30
An investigation got underway after a man was shot dead by Gardaí in West Dublin.[https://www.rte.ie/news/crime/2020/1230/1186988-shooting/ Man dies after being shot by gardaí in west Dublin] RTÉ News, 2020-12-30
31 December
The HSE announced that close contacts of confirmed cases of COVID-19 are no longer being advised to get tested due to current widespread levels of infection.[https://www.thejournal.ie/close-contacts-no-test-ireland-5313820-Dec2020/ Covid-19 close contacts no longer advised to get tested but still told to restrict movements] TheJournal.ie, 2020-12-31
Around 200 people attended a protest outside Blanchardstown Garda Station after a 27-year-old man, named locally as George Nkencho, was shot dead by Gardaí on 30 December.[https://www.independent.ie/news/justice-for-george-chanted-by-protesters-after-garda-shooting-39917615.html ‘Justice for George’ chanted by protesters after garda shooting] Irish Independent, 2020-12-31

Sport

= Association football =

;International friendly match

12 November – England 3–0 Ireland[https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/1112/1177845-ireland-outclassed-by-england-at-wembley/ Ireland outclassed by England at Wembley] RTÉ Sport, 2020-11-12.

; Nations League

3 September – Bulgaria 1–1 Ireland [https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/0903/1163096-duffy-rescues-a-point-for-ireland-in-bulgaria/ Duffy rescues a point for Ireland with injury-time header in Bulgaria] RTÉ Sport, 2020-09-03.
6 September – Ireland 0–1 Finland[https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/0906/1163568-first-loss-for-kenny-as-ireland-beaten-by-finland/ First loss for Kenny as Ireland beaten by Finland] RTÉ Sport, 2020-09-06.
11 October – Ireland 0–0 Wales[https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/1011/1170827-ten-man-ireland-held-at-home-as-mcclean-sees-red/ Ten-man Ireland held at home as James McClean sees red] RTÉ Sport, 2020-10-11.
14 October – Finland 1–0 Ireland [https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/1014/1171586-kennys-ireland-draw-another-blank-in-finland-defeat/ Kenny's Ireland draw another blank in Finland defeat] RTÉ Sport, 2020-10-14.
15 November – Wales 1–0 Ireland [https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/1115/1178277-poor-form-continues-as-ireland-beaten-by-wales/ Poor form continues as Ireland beaten by Wales] RTÉ Sport, 2020-11-15.
18 November – Ireland 0–0 Bulgaria [https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/1118/1178973-ireland-avoid-drop-but-fail-to-fire-against-bulgaria/ Ireland avoid drop but fail to fire against Bulgaria] RTÉ Sport, 2020-11-18.

; Euro 2020 playoff

8 October – Slovakia 0–0 aet (pso: 4–2) Ireland [https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/1008/1170256-ireland-hopes-dashed-after-penalty-drama-in-slovakia/ Ireland hopes dashed after penalty drama in Slovakia] RTÉ Sport, 2020-10-08.

Deaths

= January =

File:Seamus Mallon speaking at John Hewitt International Summer School 2017.png]]

2 January – Marian Finucane, 69, broadcaster.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0102/1104037-marian-finucane/ Veteran RTÉ broadcaster Marian Finucane dies suddenly, aged 69], RTÉ News, 2020-01-02.
7 January
Larry Gogan, 85, broadcaster.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0107/1104730-larry-gogan/ Veteran RTÉ broadcaster Larry Gogan dies], RTÉ News, 2020-01-07.
Pat Collins, rock and jazz fiddler.[https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/2020/0108/1105026-renowned-fiddle-player-pat-collins-has-died/ Renowned fiddle player Pat Collins has died], RTÉ News, 2020-01-09.
9 January - Breandán Ó Madagáin, 87, scholar, writer and celticist.[https://notices.irishtimes.com/death/o-madagain-breandan/56259335 Ó MADAGÁIN, Breandán : Death notice], Irish Times, 2020-01-09.
11 January – Matty Maher, 80, pub owner, lung cancer.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/tributes-paid-to-kilkenny-man-who-ran-new-york-s-oldest-irish-pub-1.4141111 Tributes paid to Kilkenny man who ran New York’s oldest Irish pub], Irish Times, 2020-01-11.
14 January – Tom Kelly, journalist and RTÉ News correspondent, cancer.[https://www.rte.ie/news/leinster/2020/0114/1107442-tom-kelly-death/ Former RTÉ Midlands Correspondent dies], RTÉ News, 2020-01-14.
19 January – Joe Steve Ó Neachtain, 77, writer, actor, playwright and broadcaster.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/death-takes-place-of-actor-and-writer-joe-steve-%C3%B3-neachtain-1.4145832 Death takes place of actor and writer Joe Steve Ó Neachtain], Irish Times, 2020-01-20.
21 January – Patrick Kennedy, 78, politician, Senator (1981–1982, 1983–1993), short illness.{{cite web|title='A political colossus': Limerick's longest serving councillor passes away|url=https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/510760/a-political-colossus-limerick-s-longest-serving-councilor-passes-away.html|website=Limerick Leader|date=22 January 2020|access-date=22 January 2020}}
24 January – Seamus Mallon, 83, politician, Senator (1982–1983), MLA (1998–2003) and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland (1998–2001).[https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/seamus-mallon-dies-aged-83-977569.html Seamus Mallon dies aged 83], Breaking News, 2020-01-24.
30 January – Joe Millea, 78, hurler (Graigue-Ballycallan, Kilkenny senior team, Leinster).{{cite news|url=https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/deaths/513379/1969-all-ireland-winner-joe-millea-has-died.html|title=1969 All-Ireland winner Joe Millea has died|last=|first=|date=31 January 2020|publisher=Kilkenny Live|accessdate=11 July 2023}}

= February =

File:Francie Brolly 2012.jpg]]

3 February – Marese Skehan, general election candidate (Tipperary).[https://www.rte.ie/news/election-2020/2020/0203/1112908-marese-skehan/ Tipperary vote postponed after death of candidate], RTÉ News, 2020-02-03.
5 February – Eamonn Boyce, 94, IRA volunteer.[https://notices.irishtimes.com/death/boyce-eamonn/56381871 Boyce, Eamonn : Death notice]
6 February - Francie Brolly, 82, musician and politician, MLA (2003–2010).[https://www.rte.ie/news/ulster/2020/0206/1113528-francie-brolly/ SF pays tribute to former MLA Francie Brolly], RTÉ News, 2020-02-06.
8 February
Paddy Broderick, 80, jockey.{{cite web |last1=Burn |first1=James |title=Paddy Broderick, rider of Champion Hurdle great Night Nurse, dies at 80 |work=Racing Post |url=https://www.racingpost.com/news/paddy-broderick-rider-of-champion-hurdle-great-night-nurse-dies-at-80/420567 |date=9 February 2020}}
Keelin Shanley, 51, broadcaster, cancer.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/rte-broadcaster-keelin-shanley-dies-aged-51-38938075.html RTÉ broadcaster Keelin Shanley dies aged 51], Irish Independent, 2020-02-08.
9 February – Paul Kelly, 62, charity founder.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/former-console-ceo-paul-kelly-dies-aged-62-38946079.html Former Console CEO Paul Kelly dies aged 62], Irish Independent, 2020-02-09.
11 February – Jim Cullinan, 77, hurler (Newmarket-on-Fergus, Clare).[https://clare.gaa.ie/jimmy-cullinane-rip/ Jimmy Cullinan RIP], Clare GAA website, 2020-02-11.
14 February
Garrett Fitzgerald, 65, rugby union player (University College Cork, Cork Constitution), coach and administrator (Munster), illness.[https://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/2020/0214/1115430-former-munster-ceo-fitzgerald-passes-away/ Former Munster CEO Garrett Fitzgerald dies aged 65], RTÉ News, 2020-02-15.
Jimmy Conway, 73, footballer (Fulham, Portland Timbers, national team).[https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/0214/1115318-former-ireland-international-jimmy-conway-dies-aged-73/ Former Ireland international Jimmy Conway dies aged 73]
20 February – Eamon Long, 81, hurler (Scariff, Faughs, Clare).[https://clare.gaa.ie/eamon-long-r-i-p/ Eamon Long R.I.P.], Clare GAA website, 2020-02-25.
23 February - Des Smyth, musician and singer, illness.[http://www.superannrte.ie/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7150:death-of-des-smith-musician-performer&catid=31&Itemid=104 Death of Des Smyth (Musician – Performer)], Superannrte, 2020-02-26.

= March =

2 March – Farrell McElgunn, 88, politician, Senator (1965–1973) and MEP (1973).[https://www.leitrimobserver.ie/news/home/522049/death-of-former-councillor-senator-and-mep-farrell-mcelgunn.html Death of former Councillor, Senator and MEP, Farrell McElgunn], Leitrim Observer, 2020-03-02.
3 March – Úna O'Connor, 83, camogie player (Celtic, Dublin).[https://www.the42.ie/una-oconnor-rip-5032517-Mar2020/ 13-time All-Ireland winner and Dublin camogie legend Úna O'Connor has died], The 42, 2020-03-04.
7 March – Frank Hogan, 81, born-again Christian.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/frank-hogan-holder-of-john-3-7-sign-at-gaa-matches-dies-aged-81-1.4197488 Frank Hogan, holder of ‘John 3:7’ sign at GAA matches, dies aged 81], Irish Times, 2020-03-07.
9 March - Barney Eastwood, 87, boxing promoter, short illness.[https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/boxing-promoter-barney-eastwood-dies-39029192.html Boxing promoter Barney Eastwood dies], Belfast Telegraph, 2020-03-09.
24 March – Hugh Conaghan, 93, politician, TD (1977–1989).[https://www.highlandradio.com/2020/03/25/former-donegal-td-hugh-conaghan-dies-aged-93/ Former Donegal TD Hugh Conaghan dies aged 93], Highland Radio, 2020-03-25.
26 March – John O'Leary, 70, golfer, long illness.[https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/former-irish-open-winner-john-o-leary-has-died-1.4213043 Former Irish Open winner John O’Leary has died], Irish Times, 2020-03-26.
27 March – Frank Larkin, 48, disability rights activist, illness.[https://donegalnews.com/2020/03/tributes-paid-following-death-of-frank-larkin/ Tributes paid following death of Frank Larkin], 2020-03-27.
28 March – Conor Connelly, 44, Gaelic footballer (St. Jude's, Roscommon).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/309867 Roscommon Connacht SFC winner passes away], Hogan Stand, 2020-03-29.
30 March – Alfie Monk, 86, Gaelic footballer (St. Patrick's, Meath, Louth).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/309914 Louth All-Ireland winner Alfie Monk passes away], Hogan Stand, 2020-04-01.
31 March – Mary Buckley-Clarke, 73, writer, poet and songwriter, leukaemia.[https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/theatre-arts/obituary-mary-buckley-clarke-39103630.html Obituary: Mary Buckley Clarke], Irish Independent, 2020-04-05.

= April =

File:Ronan O'Rahilly (1967).jpg]]

File:Eavan Boland in 1996.jpg]]

File:Michael_Robinson.JPG]]

5 April – Tom Larkin, 88, hurler and Gaelic footballer (Kilsheelan-Kilcash, Tipperary).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/309984 Tipperary GAA mourn loss of All-Ireland winning hero], Hogan Stand, 2020-04-07.
7 April – Tom Scully, 89, Gaelic football manager (Offaly), COVID-19.[https://www.irishmirror.ie/sport/gaa/gaelic-football/gaelic-football-news/father-tom-scully-rip-coronavirus-21831024 Former Offaly football manager Fr. Tom Scully dies after contracting coronavirus], Irish Mirror, 2020-04-09.
9 April – Norah Gibbons, 68, children's rights activist.[https://www.independent.ie/news/passionate-and-tireless-tributes-pour-in-following-death-of-childrens-rights-advocate-norah-gibbons-39115893.html 'Passionate and tireless' - tributes pour in following death of children's rights advocate Norah Gibbons], Irish Independent, 2020-04-09.
13 April – Shay Keogh, 85, footballer (Shamrock Rovers, Dundalk, St Patrick's Athletic F.C., national team).[https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/shamrock-rovers-announce-death-of-shay-keogh-aged-85-1.4228947 Shamrock Rovers announce death of Shay Keogh aged 85], Irish Times, 2020-04-14.
14 April – Danny Delaney, Gaelic footballer (Stradbally, Laois), COVID-19.[https://www.laoistoday.ie/2020/04/15/tributes-paid-to-former-laois-footballer-following-sad-passing/ Tributes paid to former Laois footballer following sad passing], Laois Today, 2020-04-15.
20 April – Tom Mulholland, 84, Gaelic footballer (Kilkerley Emmets, Louth, Leinster), COVID-19.[https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/people/tom-mulholland-obituary-great-athlete-who-represented-louth-and-leinster-1.4247413 Tom Mulholland obituary: Great athlete who represented Louth and Leinster], Irish Times, 2020-05-09.
20 April – Ronan O'Rahilly, 79, businessman and show-business manager, vascular dementia.[https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/2020/0420/1132739-ronan-orahily-founder-of-radio-caroline-dead-at-79/ Ronan O'Rahilly, founder of Radio Caroline, dead at 79], RTÉ News, 2020-04-20.
21 April – Dave Bacuzzi, 79, English-born Irish-based footballer (Cork Hibernians, League of Ireland XI) and manager (Home Farm), COVID-19.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/soccer/dave-bacuzzi-the-man-who-led-cork-hibs-through-their-glory-years-passes-away-995509.html Dave Bacuzzi, the man who led Cork Hibs through their glory years, passes away], Irish Examiner, 2020-04-22.
22 April – Oliver Gough, 84, hurler (Ferns St. Aidan's, Rathnure, Thomastown, Wexford, Kilkenny).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/gaa/hurling-mourns-oliver-gough-the-last-man-to-win-senior-all-irelands-with-two-different-counties-995498.html Hurling mourns Oliver Gough, the last man to win senior All-Irelands with two different counties], Irish Examiner, 2020-04-23.
24 April – Tiede Herrema, 99, Dutch-born Irish-based businessman and IRA kidnap victim.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/president-pays-tribute-on-death-of-dr-tiede-herrema-kidnapped-by-ira-in-1975-996327.html President pays tribute on death of Dr Tiede Herrema; Kidnapped by IRA in 1975], Irish Examiner, 2020-04-27.
26 April – Laura Bernal, 64, Argentine Ambassador to Ireland, COVID-19.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0515/1138515-mayo-argentina-ambassador-funeral/ Funeral of Argentinian Ambassador to take place in Mayo], RTÉ News, 2020-05-15.
27 April – Eavan Boland, 75, poet, author and academic, stroke.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0427/1135169-eavan-boland/ Poet Eavan Boland dies aged 75], RTÉ News, 2020-04-27.
28 April – Michael Robinson, 61, footballer (Manchester City, Liverpool, national team), melanoma.[https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/former-ireland-international-michael-robinson-dies-aged-61-1.4239844 Former Ireland international Michael Robinson dies aged 61], Irish Times, 2020-04-28.
29 April – Noel Walsh, 84, Gaelic footballer, manager and Gaelic games administrator, pneumonia resulting from COVID-19.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/tributes-paid-to-clare-gaa-stalwart-noel-walsh-after-his-death-from-covid-19-1.4240870|title=Tributes paid to Clare GAA stalwart Noel Walsh after his death from Covid-19: The former army colonel was widely respected as one of the GAA's most influential reformers|newspaper=The Irish Times|first=Seán|last=Moran|date=29 April 2020|accessdate=29 April 2020|quote=Everything Noel Walsh, who died on Wednesday in Ennis Hospital due to pneumonia caused by Covid-19, did was 'for the good of Clare football', according to one of the historic team of 1992, who took the Munster football title back to the county for the first time in 75 years.}}
30 April – Billy Ringrose, 89, showjumper.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/racing/irish-show-jumping-legend-billy-ringrose-dies-996937.html Irish show jumping legend Billy Ringrose dies], Irish Examiner, 2020-04-30.

= May =

2 May
Tom Hardiman, 91, former Director-General of RTÉ.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0503/1136343-tom-hardiman-rte/ Former RTÉ Director General Tom Hardiman has died], RTÉ News, 2020-05-03.
Jonathan Kelly, 72, folk rock singer-songwriter.[https://www.hotpress.com/music/irish-folk-rock-hero-jonathan-kelly-aka-jon-ledingham-died-22814242 Irish Folk Rock Hero Jonathan Kelly aka Jon Ledingham Has Died], Hot Press, 2020-05-03.
Oliver Crewe, 73, Gaelic footballer (Clan na Gael, Armagh), COVID-19.[https://www.irishnews.com/sport/gaafootball/2020/05/26/news/oliver-crewe-tribute-to-a-quiet-gentleman-and-unique-armagh-gael-1951760/ Oliver Crewe: tribute to a quiet gentleman and unique Armagh gael], Irish News, 2020-05-26.
6 May – Paddy Molloy, 86, hurler (Drumcullen, Offaly, Leinster).[https://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/2020/0506/1136907-former-offaly-hurler-paddy-molloy-dies/ Former Offaly hurler Paddy Molloy dies], RTÉ Sport, 2020-05-06.
8 May – J. J. Cribbin, 73, Gaelic footballer (Ballyhaunis, Mayo), illness.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/mayo-mourns-death-of-league-winner-fr-jj-cribbin-998445.html Mayo mourns death of League winner Fr JJ Cribbin], Irish Examiner, 2020-05-08.
15 May
Paddy Fenning, 69, Gaelic footballer (Tullamore, Offaly, Leinster), motor neuron disease.[https://www.independent.ie/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/offaly-all-ireland-winner-paddy-fenning-passes-away-39209079.html Offaly All-Ireland winner Paddy Fenning passes away], Irish Independent, 2020-05-15.
Tom O'Donoghue, 79, hurler (Sarsfields, Cork, Munster).[https://www.hoganstand.com/Article/Index/310428 Cork 1966 All-Ireland winner passes away], Hogan Stand, 2020-05-17.
16 May – Gerard Brady, 83, politician, TD (1977–1992), Minister of State (1982) and Minister for Education (1982).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/martin-pays-tribute-to-former-minister-gerard-brady-999960.html Martin pays tribute to former minister Gerard Brady], Irish Examiner, 2020-05-16.
19 May – Larry Dunne, 72, convicted drug dealer.[https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0519/1139337-larry-dunne-death/ Larry Dunne, widely blamed for introducing heroin to Dublin, dies], RTÉ News, 2020-05-19.
21 May
John Murphy, 72, Gaelic footballer (Newry Shamrocks, Down).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/310496 Down GAA mourns death of All-Ireland winning player and selector John Murphy], Hogan Stand, 2020-05-21.
Paddy Buckley, 75, Gaelic footballer (Maryland, Westmeath).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/310503 Death of Westmeath's Paddy Buckley], Hogan Stand, 2020-05-22.
23 May – Michael Devine, 79, journalist, cancer.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/former-irish-times-and-belfast-telegraph-journalist-michael-devine-dies-aged-79-1.4261376 Former Irish Times and Belfast Telegraph journalist Michael Devine dies aged 79], Irish Times, 2020-05-24.
27 May – Tony Scannell, 74, actor.[https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-52831766 The Bill actor Tony Scannell dies aged 74], BBC News, 2020-05-28.
28 May – Brendan Bowyer, 81, singer.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/showband-star-brendan-bowyer-dies-in-las-vegas-1002411.html Showband star Brendan Bowyer dies in Las Vegas], Irish Examiner, 2020-05-29
30 May – Chick Gillen, 87, boxer.[https://www.rte.ie/news/connacht/2020/0530/1143584-michael-gillen/ Tributes paid to Galway boxer Michael 'Chick' Gillen], RTÉ News, 2020-05-30

= June =

File:Jean Kennedy Smith and Vicki Kennedy.jpg]]

5 June – Betty Ann Norton, 83, drama teacher.{{cite web |title=The death has occurred of Betty Ann NORTON |url=https://rip.ie/death-notice/betty-ann-norton-dun-laoghaire-dublin/425544 |website=RIP.ie |access-date=24 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200611204435/https://rip.ie/death-notice/betty-ann-norton-dun-laoghaire-dublin/425544 |archive-date=11 Jun 2020 |language=English |date=9 Jun 2020 |url-status=live}}
6 June – Lester Ryan, 61, hurler (Clara, Kilkenny, Leinster), traffic collision.[https://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/2020/0607/1145914-former-kilkenny-hurler-ryan-dies-in-road-accident/ Former Kilkenny hurler Ryan dies in road accident], RTÉ, 2020-06-07
8 June – Tony Dunne, 78, footballer (Shelbourne, Manchester United, national team).[https://www.rte.ie/sport/soccer/2020/0608/1146238-ireland-and-man-united-star-tony-dunne-dies-aged-78/ Former Ireland and Man United star Tony Dunne, dies aged 78], RTÉ News, 2020-06-08
9 June – Jeanne Rynhart, 74, sculptor.[https://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2020/0609/1146364-jeanne-rynhart/ Molly Malone statue sculptor dies aged 74], RTÉ, 2020-06-09
13 June – Mags Murray, 58, politician, Councillor (2004–2019).[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/tributes-paid-to-former-councillor-and-mayor-mags-murray-1.4278983 Tributes paid to former councillor and mayor Mags Murray], Irish Times, 2020-06-20
16 June – John Joe Sheehan, 90, Gaelic footballer (Killarney Legion, Kerry, Munster).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/gaa/former-kerry-captain-john-joe-sheehan-dies-1005611.html Former Kerry captain John Joe Sheehan dies], Irish Examiner, 2020-06-16
17 June – Colm Horkan, 49, detective in the Garda Síochána, former footballer (Charlestown Sarsfields GAA).[https://www.rte.ie/news/crime/2020/0619/1148553-court-roscommon/ Man, 43, charged with murder of Garda Colm Horkan], RTÉ News, 2020-06-20
18 June – Jean Kennedy Smith, 92, Irish-American diplomat and former US Ambassador to Ireland.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/us/jean-kennedy-smith-last-surviving-kennedy-sibling-dies-aged-92-1.4282492 Jean Kennedy Smith, last-surviving Kennedy sibling, dies aged 92], Irish Times, 2020-06-18
26 June – Theo Foley, 83, footballer (Home Farm, Charlton Athletic, national team) and assistant manager (Arsenal).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/soccer/a-special-football-man-tributes-pour-in-for-arsenal-and-ireland-hero-theo-foley-1007657.html 'A special football man': tributes pour in for Arsenal and Ireland hero Theo Foley], Irish Examiner, 2020-06-26

= July =

File:Jack Charlton.jpg]]

1 July – Tommy Ring, 81, hurler (Castlepollard, Kilmacud Crokes, Westmeath, Leinster).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/311102 Westmeath GAA mourns a hurling great], Hogan Stand, 2020-07-02
2 July – Jack Harding, 87, hurler (Shelmaliers, Wexford).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/311112 Wexford 1960 All-Ireland winner passes away], Hogan Stand, 2020-07-04
10 July
Jack Charlton, 85, English footballer and manager of the Irish national team.[https://www.independent.ie/sport/legendary-ireland-manager-jack-charlton-has-passed-away-aged-85-39359026.html Legendary Ireland manager Jack Charlton has passed away aged 85], Irish Independent, 2020-07-11
Johnny Cusack, 92, Gaelic footballer (Lavey, Cavan, Ulster).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/311222 Cavan All-Ireland winner passes away], Hogan Stand, 2020-07-11
Michael Cullen, 74, artist, long illness.[https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/books-arts/obituary-michael-cullen-39397670.html Obituary: Michael Cullen], Irish Independent, 2020-07-26
14 July
Michael Quinn, 80, journalist (Irish Independent).[https://www.rte.ie/news/regional/2020/0715/1153418-quinn-journalist-death/ Death of veteran Waterford journalist Michael Quinn], RTÉ News, 2020-07-15
Christine Keegan, 81, Stardust fire campaigner.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/stardust-campaigner-and-true-warrior-christine-keegan-dies-1.4304659#:~:text=Long%2Dtime%20campaigner%20for%20those,died%2C%20her%20family%20has%20confirmed.&text=It%20occurred%20during%20a%20Valentine's,Keegan%20died%20on%20Tuesday%20evening. Stardust campaigner and ‘true warrior’ Christine Keegan dies], Irish Times, 2020-07-14
15 July
Kieran O'Connor, 41, Gaelic footballer (Aghada, Cork), bone cancer.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/gaa/kieran-oconnor-2010-all-ireland-winner-with-cork-dies-aged-41-1011421.html Kieran O'Connor, 2010 All-Ireland winner with Cork, dies aged 41], Irish Examiner, 2020-07-15
Séamus Sexton, 69, bowler.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/othersport/arid-40016486.html Road bowling mourns Nadd great Séamus Sexton], Irish Examiner, 2020-07-15
19 July – Ruth Morrissey, 39, CervicalCheck campaigner, cancer.[https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0719/1154244-ruth-morrissey/ CervicalCheck campaigner Ruth Morrissey has died], RTÉ News, 2020-07-19
22 July – Tom Mitchell, 88, republican and politician.[https://www.irishnews.com/news/northernirelandnews/2020/07/23/news/o-neill-pays-tribute-following-the-death-of-sinn-fe-in-veteran-and-former-mid-ulster-mp-tom-mitchell-2013577/ O'Neill pays tribute following the death of Sinn Féin veteran and former Mid Ulster MP Tom Mitchell], Irish News, 2020-07-23

= August =

File:John Hume 2008.jpg]]

3 August – John Hume, 83, politician, Leader of the SDLP (1979–2001), MEP (1979–2001) and Nobel Peace Prize laureate (1998), dementia.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/former-sdlp-leader-and-nobel-peace-prize-winner-john-hume-has-died-39418041.html Former SDLP leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner John Hume has died], Irish Independent, 2020-08-03
9 August
Brendan Halligan, 84, economist and politician, Senator (1973–1976), TD (1976–1977) and MEP (1983–1984).[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/news/a-great-and-sad-loss-to-us-all-former-labour-td-mep-and-senator-brendan-halligan-passes-away-aged-84-39435384.html 'A great and sad loss to us all' - former Labour TD, MEP and Senator Brendan Halligan passes away, aged 84], Irish Independent, 2020-08-09
Michael Coyne, 75, veteran of the Vietnam War.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/irish-war-hero-dies-in-dublin-hospital-39440981.html Irish war hero dies in Dublin hospital], Irish Independent, 2020-08-11
10 August
P. J. Sheehan, 87, politician, TD (1981–2002, 2007–2011).[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/a-wonderful-character-tributes-paid-to-former-fine-gael-td-87-who-died-after-short-illness-39437451.html 'A wonderful character' - tributes paid to former Fine Gael TD (87) who died after short illness], Irish Independent, 2020-08-10
Paddy Doyle, 79, hurler (Thurles Sarsfields, Tipperary) and manager (Thurles Sarsfields, Borris-Ileigh, Moycarkey-Borris, Laois).[http://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/311941 Death of Tipp All-Ireland winner Paddy Doyle], Hogan Stand, 2020-08-11
16 August – Tommy Carroll, 77, footballer (Shelbourne, Birmingham City, national team).[https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/former-ireland-international-tommy-carroll-has-passed-away-aged-77-39453555.html Former Ireland international Tommy Carroll has passed away, aged 77], Irish Independent, 2020-08-16
19 August – Jim O'Brien, 74, hurler (Bruree, Limerick, Munster).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/arid-40035098.html Bruree mourn passing of Limerick All-Ireland winner Jim O’Brien], Irish Examiner, 2020-08-20
20 August – Desmond Guinness, 88, author and conservationist.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/obituary-desmond-guinness-39470675.html Obituary: Desmond Guinness], Irish Independent, 2020-08-23
23 August – Frank Dunphy, 82, business manager, entrepreneur and accountant.[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/obituaries/2020/08/25/frank-dunphy-accountant-helped-propel-damien-hirst-top-art-market/ Frank Dunphy, accountant who helped propel Damien Hirst to the top of the art market – obituary], The Telegraph, 2020-08-25
27 August – Eugene McCabe, 90, author and playwright.[https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/eugene-mccabe-author-and-playwright-dies-aged-90-1.4340171 Eugene McCabe, author and playwright, dies, aged 90], Irish Times, 2020-08-27

= September =

File:Pat Smullen IMG 2028 20131201.JPG]]

3 September – Michael J. Cleary, 95, Roman Catholic prelate, Bishop of Banjul (1981–2006).[https://fatunetwork.net/president-barrow-commiserates-with-catholic-community-over-deaths-of-bishop-cleary-and-goerge-gomez/ President Barrow Commiserates With Catholic Community Over Deaths Of Bishop Cleary And Goerge Gomez]
4 September – Mike Cooley, 86, engineer, writer and trade union leader.[https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/people/mike-cooley-obituary-champion-of-human-centred-innovation-1.4351591 Mike Cooley obituary: Champion of human-centred innovation]
5 September – Jimmy Lavin, 92, Gaelic footballer and hurler (St. Vincent's, Dublin).[https://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/2020/0909/1164244-tributes-pour-in-for-ex-dublin-dual-star-jimmy-lavin/ Tributes pour in for ex-Dublin dual star Jimmy Lavin]
15 September – Pat Smullen, 43, jockey, pancreatic cancer.[https://www.independent.ie/sport/horse-racing/nine-time-irish-champion-jockey-pat-smullen-dies-at-43-39534659.html Nine-time Irish champion jockey Pat Smullen dies at 43]
27 September - Billy Dwyer, 86, hurler (Faughs, Kilkenny).[https://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/313188 Passing of Two Hurling Greats]

= October =

File:Derek Mahon in Moscow.JPG]]

File:Headshot John J. Campion.jpg]]

1 October
Derek Mahon, 78, poet.[https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/derek-mahon-one-of-ireland-s-leading-poets-has-died-aged-78-1.4370324 Derek Mahon, one of Ireland’s leading poets, has died, aged 78]
Robbie Brunton, 47, footballer (Sligo Rovers, Coleraine, Bohemians).[https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/league-of-ireland/tributes-pour-in-following-the-death-of-former-league-of-ireland-player-robbie-brunton-aged-47-39578967.html Tributes pour in following the death of former League of Ireland player Robbie Brunton, aged 47]
2 October – John Joseph Campion, 57, entrepreneur.[https://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2020/10/05/john-campion-obit.amp.html John Campion, co-founder of APR Energy, dies at age 57]
5 October – Tommy Cullen, 81, Gaelic footballer (Edenderry, Offaly).[https://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/313364 Passing of an Offaly great], Hogan Stand, 2020-10-09.
6 October – Margaret Mac Curtain, 91, historian and writer.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40060238.html 'We owe her a profound debt of gratitude' - Sister Margaret Mac Curtain dies age 91]
8 October
Tom O'Donnell, 94, politician, TD (1961–1987), Minister for the Gaeltacht (1973–1977) and MEP (1979–1984).[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/veteran-politician-and-minister-tom-odonnell-has-died-39602808.html Veteran politician and minister, Tom O’Donnell, has died], Irish Independent, 2020-10-08.
Fergus McCabe, 71, social worker and community activist.[https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/activist-fergus-mccabe-beating-heart-of-inner-city-dublin-dies-aged-71-1.4377796 Activist Fergus McCabe, ‘beating heart’ of inner city Dublin, dies aged 71], Irish Times, 2020-10-11.
9 October – Pat Hooper, 68, athlete, heart attack.[https://www.rte.ie/sport/athletics/2020/1009/1170621-olympian-and-athletics-stalwart-pat-hooper-dies-aged-68/ Olympian and athletics stalwart Pat Hooper dies aged 68], RTÉ News, 2020-10-09.
11 October – Paddy Doyle, 69, writer and disability activist.[https://www.rte.ie/news/leinster/2020/1011/1170869-death-paddy-doyle/ Writer and disability activist Paddy Doyle dies], RTÉ News, 2020-10-11.
15 October – Terry Kearns, 75, Gaelic footballer (Meath).[https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/meath-all-ireland-winner-terry-kearns-dies-aged-75-1.4382155 Meath All-Ireland winner Terry Kearns dies aged 75], Irish Times, 2020-10-15.
27 October – Julia Ó Faoláin, 88, writer.[https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/author-julia-o-faolain-has-died-aged-88-1.4393273 Author Julia O’Faolain has died, aged 88], Irish Times, 2020-10-28.
30 October – Robert Fisk, 74, English-born journalist.{{Cite news|last1=Pope|first1=Conor|last2=Bowers|first2=Shauna|last3=Clarke|first3=Vivienne|title=Funeral of 'fearless' journalist and author Robert Fisk takes place|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/funeral-of-fearless-journalist-and-author-robert-fisk-takes-place-1.4397454|date=2020-11-02|access-date=2024-01-26|newspaper=The Irish Times|location=Dublin}}

=November=

5 November
Vincent Coakley, 65, Gaelic footballer (Millstreet, Cork).[https://rip.ie/death-notice/vincent-coakley-macroom-cork/438491 The death has occurred of Vincent Coakley], Rip.ie, 2020-11-07.
Dave Roche, 97, Gaelic footballer (Fermoy, Cork, Munster).[https://www.echolive.ie/corksport/arid-40077038.html Fermoy GAA club salute Dave Roche, the Rookie who became an All-Star goalie], The Echo, 2020-11-06.
6 November
Paul Carey, 41, hurler (Patrickswell, Limerick).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40077686.html 'Terribly sad and so sudden': Limerick hurling hero Paul Carey dies in Dubai collision], Irish Examiner, 2020-11-07.
Fergus O'Kelly, 88, actor, musician and singer.[https://www.irishpost.com/news/tributes-paid-to-actor-fergus-okelly-father-teds-laughing-priest-who-has-sadly-passed-away-197457#:~:text=IRISH%20ACTOR%20Fergus%20O'Kelly%20has%20sadly%20passed%20away.&text=His%20daughter%2C%20Deirdre%2C%20broke%20the,Dunne%20from%20%5BFather%20Ted%5D. Tributes paid to actor Fergus O'Kelly, Father Ted's 'Laughing Priest', who has sadly passed away], The Irish Post, 2020-11-11.
7 November
Adrian Cahill, 49, hurler (Birr, Offaly).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/arid-40077857.html Offaly hurling mourns Adrian Cahill: 'He had a heart of gold'], Irish Examiner, 2020-11-07.
Brian Coll, 79, country music singer, heart attack.[https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/music/music-news/tributes-for-irish-country-music-legend-brian-coll-after-death-aged-79-39722919.html Tributes for Irish country music legend Brian Coll after death aged 79], Irish Independent, 2020-11-09.
Tim Slevin, 91, hurler (Leitrim).[https://www.leitrimgaa.ie/2020/11/tim-slevin-rip-former-leitrim-hurler/ Tim Slevin Former Leitrim Hurler], 2020-11-09.
12 November – Tommy Butler, 69, hurler (Drom-Inch, Tipperary senior team, Munster).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/arid-40082108.html Tipperary hurling mourns All Star Tommy Butler], irishexaminer.com, 2020-11-13.
16 November – Jim Culliton, 86, businessman.[https://www.independent.ie/business/irish/death-of-culliton-report-author-and-former-crh-chair-39760333.html Death of ‘Culliton Report’ author and former CRH chair], independent.ie, 2020-11-18.
22 November – Maurice Setters, 83, English-born football assistant manager (national team).[https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/international-soccer/former-ireland-assistant-manager-maurice-setters-dies-aged-83-39780116.html Former Ireland assistant manager Maurice Setters dies, aged 83], independent.ie, 2020-11-23.
24 November – Harry Ryan, 63, hurler (Clara, Kilkenny).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/arid-40088915.html Kilkenny All-Ireland winner Harry Ryan dies], irishexaminer.com, 2020-11-25.
25 November – Denis Heaslip, 87, hurler (Knocktopher, Kilkenny).[https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/gaa/arid-40089656.html Kilkenny hurling mourns two-time All-Ireland winner Denis Heaslip ], irishexaminer.com, 2020-11-26.

=December=

File:Tim Severin.jpg]]

3 December – Paudie Fitzgerald, 87, cyclist.[https://www.rte.ie/news/munster/2020/1203/1182183-kerry-cycling-paudie-fitzgerald/ Kerry cycling legend Paudie Fitzgerald dies aged 87], rte.ie, 2020-12-03.
17 December – Jim Fives, 91, hurler (Tourin, Waterford, Galway).[https://www.hoganstand.com/Article/Index/314964 Death of All Ireland Final Hero], Hogan Stand, 2020-12-22.
18 December
John Harbison, 84, former State Pathologist.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40193826.html Former State Pathologist, Prof John Harbison, dies], Irish Examiner, 2020-12-19.
Tim Severin, 80, Irish-based British filmmaker and explorer.[https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40193781.html Explorer and filmmaker Tim Severin dies aged 80], Irish Examiner, 2020-12-19.
21 December
Joe Cuddy, 80, singer and entertainer who scored number-one hit in Ireland in 1974 with his version of "Any Dream Will Do".[https://www.irelandsown.ie/a-tribute-to-joe-cuddy/ A TRIBUTE TO JOE CUDDY], Ireland's Own, 2021-02-12.
29 December – Jerry O'Riordan, 81, Gaelic footballer (Glenbeigh-Glencar, Mid Kerry, Kerry).[https://hoganstand.com/Article/Index/314995 Death of Kerry All-Ireland winner Jerry O'Riordan], Hogan Stand, 2020-12-30.
30 December – Victor Stacey, 76, Church of Ireland clergyman.[https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/former-dean-of-dublins-st-patricks-cathedral-dies-aged-76-39915556.html Former Dean of Dublin’s St Patrick’s Cathedral dies aged 76], Irish Independent, 2020-12-30.

References

External links

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2020 in Ireland

Incumbents

Events

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Sport

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Deaths

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See also

References

External links