Ireland's cultural institutions closed over coronavirus

Cultural institutions in the Republic of Ireland will close for a fortnight from 6pm on Thursday as the country responds to the coronavirus outbreak.

Premier Leo Varadkar's announcement that all schools, colleges and childcare facilities will close also affects state-run cultural institutions like the National Gallery, National Library, Cork Opera House and Abbey Theatre.

Indoor gatherings of more than 100 people and outdoor meetings of more than 500 people will be cancelled.