NPHET is due to recommend an ending of the practice in shops, schools and on public transport when it meets later today.
The Taoiseach hinted that a change could be on the way with the expectation the advice will be to lift the requirement, instead leaving it up to each person whether they want to wear a mask in public settings or not.
Paul Moynagh Professor of Immunology at Maynooth University says people will continue to wear masks when restrictions are eventually lifted:
"As we move forward and out of this pandemic, I think we will make our own individual evaluations in terms of risk and some will continue to wear masks. Some will continue for example, if visiting a vulnerable relative, will continue to do antigen testing. So, again, I think it will move more towards in terms of his personal evaluation or risk."
