Emergency powers introduced two years ago to help fight Covid-19 expire at midnight.
They allowed the Health Minister to restrict travel, prevent gatherings and close premises in an effort to slow the spread of the virus.
Most restrictions have now been lifted, however advice remains to wear a mask on public transport and in health settings.
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However, nurses want a mandate reintroduced to help ease pressure on hospitals.
The lapsing legislation would also be needed for a mandate on mask wearing to be reintroduced, something the government has ruled out.
General Secretary of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, Phil Ni Sheaghdha says the overcrowding crisis in hospitals means it's never too late to bring it back.
