Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has urged the public to stop panic buying.
The move comes as social media is awash with posts this morning describing scenes at stores across the country as “crazy”
Many have abandoned their weekly shop as large queues have made social distancing virtually impossible.
Last evening the Fine Gael leader introduced new restrictions limiting the movements of people until Easter Sunday 12 April, in a effort to slow the progress of the Covid 19 virus.
In a tweet in past few minutes Mr Varadkar said there is “no need to stockpile shopping”
“Stores and takeaways are staying open in an emergency.”
An Taoiseach said the 2km restriction of movement from a persons home implemented last evening is only related to exercising locally.
“You can go beyond the 2km to buy food and medicines. The supplies are good. We all have a part to play in rising to this challenge” said Mr Varadkar.
If you have any questions regarding the Covid-19 virus, the HSE can be contacted on 1850241850 Monday – Friday 8:00am to 8:00pm and 10:00am – 5:00pm Saturday and Sunday.