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The kissing of the Blarney Stone has been postponed for the first time ever amid the coronavirus pandemic. The icon historical stone has been the site of approximately 400,000 kisses per year since it first became a popular tourist attraction. Legend says that the stone, which is built into the battlements of Blarney Castle near Cork, grants those who kiss it with the "gift of the gab." This is the first time in history that the kissing of the stone has been postponed. Blarney Castle and Gardens announced the news this afternoon. Taking to Twitter, they wrote: "For the first time in our history the kissing of the Blarney Stone has been postponed until further notice. "The castle & gardens are still open and we would like to reassure all our visitors that we are doing everything possible to provide a safe experience." https://twitter.com/Blarney_Castle/status/1238491734235140097?s=20 Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced yesterday that to limit the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic all schools, colleges, and childcare facilities across Ireland will be closing until March 29. The government has recommended that all indoor gatherings of more than 100 people and outdoor gatherings of more than 500 people be cancelled. The public has also been asked to practice good social distancing to minimise the spread of the virus. While many pubs, shops, and restaurants remain open, others - like Copper Face Jacks - have decided to close their doors for two weeks in a bid to manage the spread of Covid-19. Anybody returning from Spain or Italy have been asked to minimise their movements until March 29, and to work from home.