Prime Minister Micheal Martin announced the new level-5 measures on Monday, the strictest under its coronavirus plan, after the country's National Public Health Emergency Team reported 1031 new cases of COVID-19.

The 14-day incidence rate for the country is at 261.7 per 100,000 people.

Under the new restrictions to take effect midnight on Wednesday, people will be prevented from travelling beyond 5 kilometres of their homes and all non-essential workers will be expected to work from home.

Non-essential retail and leisure facilities such as gyms will close, while pubs and restaurants will be limited to takeaway service only.

Schools and childcare services are to remain open.

Martin said the government's pandemic unemployment payment would be restored to 350 euros ($A580) dollars a week for those with prior earnings of 400 euros a week.

Opposition parties had objected to the fact the payment had previously been cut to 300 euros a week.

There was controversy two weeks ago when the government rejected advice to impose level-5 restrictions.

Instead, less strict level-3 measures were imposed and case numbers continued to rise rapidly.

There have been 1852 coronavirus-related deaths in Ireland and a total 50,993 cases.

Australian Associated Press