The Sports Minister says he expects full capacity crowds at the National Leagues and Ireland's Six Nations opening fixtures.
Jack Chambers says he is optimistic that covid restrictions will be lifted in time to allow spectators at full capacity for the games in Croke Park in 10 days time and at the Aviva on February 5th.
NPHET meets on Thursday against a backdrop of falling covid case numbers and calls for a fast reopening of society.
Minister Chambers says he expects a decision within days.
"All the epidemiological data certainly points to a much reduced impact on our health system.
"We have a structure and a process around our decision making, it will happen in the next two or three days.
"Obviously NPHET will meet on Thursday and then Government will give a signal about what is possible - but there is optimism within Government."
