As our government announces new measures to curb the increase in Covid19 cases in Ireland, I am thinking of friends and family who have been effectively cocooning since March. And as some of these friends only started to re-emerge last week, it must be so disappointing for them to be told that people over the age of 70 are advised to cocoon again, while younger people continue to party like there is no tomorrow, and tourists from countries where the virus is spreading like wildfire are still coming in to Ireland, ignoring the requirement to quarantine. I am determined to continue sketching outside for as long as it is safe to do so, while wearing a mask and keeping my distance! Every week, I will have to consider whether it is safe or not!
Last week, a few of us enjoyed a relatively carefree time in Saint Patrick's gardens, just beside the cathedral. As you can see, the cathedral is undergoing major work. The roof alone will cost 9.2 million euro! And you can even sponsor a slate, or even a quarter of a slate - these things don't come cheap!
It was mostly locals in the park. I didn't see any tourists, who would normally have been flocking to this area. I believe the cathedral is opened to the public, with reduced numbers and booking recommended. It's the same in the Guinness Storehouse and the Book of Kells in Trinity College, where face coverings are required too. Actually my husband was in town recently and just wanted to stroll through Trinity College, but was told it was closed at the gate, so I'd say unless you work there, you're a student or you have a booking for the Book of Kells, you won't be able to get in. It's a bit ironic that you can go in as a tourist who hasn't quarantined, but you can't go as a local! Such a shame - it's such a wonderful oasis in the city. It's going to become harder and harder to find places to sketch as the weather turns cooler and wetter! But there's always the car! So I'm determined to keep going!
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