BACKGROUND: The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the end of the emergency phase of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in May 2023. Nations across the world address the effects of the pandemic and the need to plan for future pandemics. Ireland heavily focused on isolation and social distancing to curb the infection rate early in the pandemic. These long and extended lockdowns gave Ireland a very unique experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. ANALYSIS: Ireland's COVID-19 pandemic management was discussed by an expert panel on the strengths in our national pandemic action plans, areas not sufficiently addressed and requirements to ensure future pandemic preparedness plans are robust. POLICY OPTIONS: Recommendations include having a more strategic plan to protect society's most vulnerable people, a flexible national policy that swiftly implements advances in scientific knowledge and good practices, a robust communication plan including localised information to prevent "pandemic fatigue," and address challenges from restrictions, lockdowns and isolation such as mental health and wellbeing. CONCLUSION: Lessons learnt from the Irish COVID-19 pandemic experience can be utilised for pandemic preparedness plans, nationally and internationally.