A total of 1,782 new COVID-19 infections have been reported in Ireland today.
Additionally, some 189 people are hospitalised with the deadly virus with 30 in ICU.
Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said: “Today and this weekend, the HSE are operating additional walk-in COVID-19 vaccination centres right across the country. This time last year, we could not have hoped for such highly safe and effective vaccines to aid us in suppressing this virus, nor that we would in fact have a range of them to use.
"The COVID-19 vaccination programme shows not only the best of scientific endeavour, but also commendable solidarity in those who come forward to receive a vaccine for the good of their wider community.
“I strongly encourage anyone still awaiting their COVID-19 vaccine to avail of these vaccination centres this weekend.
"These vaccines are very effective at protecting against the worst effects of COVID-19. Not only do they offer personal protection, but the more of us who receive a vaccine, the safer we all are as a group.”
Earlier today Micheál Martin will announce a timetable for the final ending of all lockdown restrictions before the end of this month.
This will signal the Government's official ending of the third pandemic lockdown.
A special Cabinet subcommittee on Covid has agreed that there will be a “road map for the easing or removal of the remaining restrictions” published within weeks.
This will most likely take the form of the now familiar State of the Nation address from the Taoiseach, or a press conference with the three Government party leaders.
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