The Department of Health has confirmed 581 new cases of Covid-19 nationally.
It is also reporting that 52 Covid patients are in hospital, with 16 of those in intensive care (ICU) – a rise of one since yesterday.
As of yesterday (Friday), there have been 4.67 million doses of vaccine administered in Ireland. Of these, over 2.5 m people have received their first dose while just over two million people are fully vaccinated.
Meanwhile, RTE News is reporting that those aged under 18 will be able to go inside bars and restaurants if they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated person, under a plan for reopening indoor hospitality that is due to go to Cabinet on Tuesday.
This is to ensure in particular that families can eat indoors during the holiday season.
The Government is continuing to work on legislation that would allow fully vaccinated people to eat and drink inside pubs and restaurants later this month.
It would also permit those who have fully recovered from Covid-19 to enter these premises.
The industry expects that there will be a time limit of one hour 45 minutes, along with a requirement to have tables one metre apart, in the guidelines that will be issued.
Details around how hotels will cater for non-resident under this new system are being worked out this weekend too.
