Fair play to them, honestly.

Almost half of Irish people say their relationships have improved since the Covid-19 outbreak began. Ireland is currently in its fourth week of total lockdown, with all non-essential travel restricted, all non-essential businesses closed, and most forms of socialising halted for the time being. It would make sense that the majority of people would find it difficult being stuck inside with their family, partners, or housemates for a considerable amount of time, but a new survey has shown different. Rather than struggling in close quarters, or lamenting missing those who aren't self isolating with them, almost half of Irish people report having improved relationships since the pandemic began. New research from Core has shown that 47 percent of Irish people report having better relationships now, while four out of 10 say that nothing has changed between them and their families since the lockdown commenced. Furthermore, 66 percent of 1,000 respondents said that they are currently enjoying the simple, everyday pleasures of life. Very few negatives here, you love to see it. The research also revealed that the level of concern about the Covid-19 outbreak had declined slightly in the past four weeks from 75 percent to 68 percent. While the population has experienced increased levels of stress and anxiety, overall, most people have taken a pragmatic approach to the pandemic and done what they can to make themselves, and those around them, feel better. 69 percent of Irish people approve of how their fellow citizens are responding to the outbreak, while 62 percent are confident that Ireland will overcome the pandemic. However, a solid 70 percent of people do believe that the outbreak will last far beyond September and into 2021 - a belief that may not be far off the mark as Minister for Health Simon Harris has stated that the virus is likely to be with us for a "long time." “Overall, the research reveals that the majority of Irish people are hopeful for the future, post COVID-19 and have taken a pragmatic approach to the pandemic," said Finian Murphy, MD at Core. “Furthermore, this public perspective reflects the growing understanding about the timelines on vaccine development, on how “flattening the curve” leads to long term use of physical distancing and the various responses across the globe. "Despite the public looking up to a year ahead, they are optimistic, and in many ways positive about managing their day to day life.” Long may it last, too.