Stephen Donnelly has published the NPHET letter of advice confirming the removal of face mask wearing rules.
And the Minister for Health thanked NPHET for their work of the past two years, indicating that it is about to be disbanded.
The letter also paved the way for all remaining restrictions in schools to be lifted, including social distancing and pods in classrooms.
Mr Donnelly said: “The current epidemiological profile of COVID-19 continues to provide a broadly stable and positive outlook.
“The advice from NPHET to remove mandatory mask wearing is a key indicator that we are moving forward in terms of our ability to live with COVID-19.
“Our ability to ease restrictions is thanks to the response and support of people across the country and our successful vaccine programme.
“I welcome these recommendations and I would like to take this opportunity to thank members of the NPHET for their expertise, commitment and guidance through what has been such a difficult period.
“Their contribution cannot be overstated.”
