This was not an easy Cabinet decision. There are several in its ranks who think that Level 5 restrictions for six weeks are excessive.
Other former ministers like Michael Ring passionately believe it is the wrong approach. However, if it works the country can return to lower level restrictions throughout December.
That was the majority view around the Cabinet table today. This would see businesses re-open for the festive and profitable period in the run up to Christmas.
That is the hope Government is clinging to tonight. Today's meeting was grim at times apparently, with ministers hearing that upwards of 200,000 more people could be out of work soon.