OVER €1. 7m has been allocated to a number of locations across Cork city and county for the transformation of outdoor dining facilities.

Ireland will continue with a major easing of Covid-19 restrictions on today, with live music returning and larger crowds allowed at indoor venues.

WAITING lists are in operation for bouncy castles as First Communions are due to get underway in the coming days. Under the measures announced by Government, religious services will be allowed to proceed at up to 50% capacity from September 6.

Darragh Bermingham hears why community groups around Ballyphehane and Togher are proud of the resilience shown by their members and the local community.

A CORK-based professor of chemistry has welcomed that the importance of ventilation and air purification has been recognised in the fight against Covid-19.

INDOOR dining for the fully vaccinated could be “the final straw” for many young people as concerns have been raised about the impact of the Government's proposals.

QUESTIONS have been raised about the possibility of implementing indoor dining for those who are fully vaccinated, with some describing the plans as “unpoliceable” and “highly problematic”.

A CORK GP has welcomed the decision to delay the reopening of indoor dining.

Cork hoteliers welcomed back guests today for the first time in months under the Government’s easing of restrictions. Catherine Martin, the tourism minister, welcomed the start of the reopening of the tourism and hospitality sector.