As Level 5 restrictions come into effect nationwide, commentators across the country are reacting to the major changes facing the country for the next six weeks.

Under the new restrictions, people are asked to stay at home, work from home unless providing an essential service, and exercise within a 5km radius of their home. People are also asked not to visit other people's homes or gardens. There will be no organised indoor or outdoor events. Schools, childcare and essential retail will remain open.

President Michael D. Higgins, is among those to address the new restrictions on his Twitter account today – sharing a video message:

"There is no doubt that the spread of the Covid virus has had a profound impact on all our lives," he said. "Many have lost love ones, lost their livelihoods, or have seen their lives altered in dramatic ways. All of us have come to rely on the solidarity of others, in a renewed awareness that no one will be safe from the virus, until every one of us is."

https://t.co/5HXjC9OQDM pic.twitter.com/FQkUcRoYDj

— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) October 22, 2020

Conor McGregor, meanwhile, is one of several people supporting the #OpenTheGyms hashtag currently trending on Twitter.

"Every health official knows physical and mental health are key to staying well," he wrote. "Working out in gyms isn't a luxury, gym owners have safety precautions in place."

Every health official knows physical and mental health are key to staying well. Working out in gyms isn’t a luxury, gym owners have safety precautions in place.
Gyms are an essential service. #OpenTheGyms

— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) October 21, 2020

Look at more Twitter reactions below:

6 weeks just wasting time..

There’s a song in there somewhere 🤔

— The Coronas (@TheCoronas) October 20, 2020

Back into level 5 tonight so that means one thing! Self Isolation Vibes returns tomorrow x pic.twitter.com/5aA9er8Nqn

— The Coronas (@TheCoronas) October 21, 2020

Outrageous what’s going on in Ireland

— Liam Gallagher (@liamgallagher) October 21, 2020

The nationwide move to Level 5 will be difficult for us all. Please remember that you are not alone and there are people there to listen ❤️ pic.twitter.com/AP3FaFw4mk

— SheSaidSo | Dublin (@ShesaidsoD) October 20, 2020

We’re gonna Rock this Lockdown Fuck COVID 🖕🏼 pic.twitter.com/cOfHDASgsM

— JEDWARD (@planetjedward) October 21, 2020

been feeling down so got a lil lockdown 2.0 pick-me-up & treated myself 🤍

Times are tough & the nights are getting dark. Wash your hands, wear a f!*cking mask and most importantly take care of your mental. Sending big virtual hugs.. love yourself today & everyday after that ✨ pic.twitter.com/KbU4BGsYWO

— Erica-Cody (@EricaCody) October 21, 2020