Ireland has recorded 4,842 new cases of Covid-19 as infection rates nationwide continue to soar.
Tragically, nine more people have passed away after fighting the deadly virus, while the number of people being treated in intensive care remains high at 107.
As of Saturday morning, there were 1,285 virus-infected patients in hospitals across the country.
HSE Chief Paul Reid also warned that this number will continue to rise, adding that we all must play our part to reduce infection rates.
He said: "There's now 1,285 people being treated in hospital (+134 on yesterday) with Covid-19 and 107 in ICU.
"For now, it will rise more. Saving lives and protecting more people getting sick is our priority.
"But, in time, the huge sacrifices everyone is making will work. Thank you."
Mr Reid was speaking just hours after NPHET confirmed that the new South African variant had been identified in Ireland.
Dr Tony Holohan said that the strain had been found in three cases, all of which were associated with foreign travel.
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