Public health officials have confirmed 7,333 new cases of Covid-19.
410 people are in hospital with the virus, of which 107 are in ICU.
Confirming the latest numbers, Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan shared some worrying data about the Omicron variant.
In a statement, he said: “Recent international experience and the rapid spread of the highly transmissible Omicron variant here means we can expect to see a large number of cases over the next short period of time.”
He urged people to work together to “flatten the curve”.
“We all remember the call to ‘flatten the curve’ in the early days of the pandemic – we have successfully driven down incidence of disease in the community before - we can and must now work together to do it again.
“By choosing to act safely right now, together we can limit the impact this disease will have in the weeks to come and in doing so, we can protect the vulnerable, prevent unnecessary deaths and ensure the continued operation of our healthcare system and other essential services."
The Deputy Chief Medical Officer echoed Dr Holohan’s comments.
Dr Ronan Glynn added: “The growth of the Omicron variant represents a significant threat to people’s ability to safely enjoy the Christmas and New Year period.
“Over the coming days please think about each of your social contacts and consider whether now is the time to be meeting with them.
“Meet up outside where possible and avoid all crowded settings. If you have symptoms please isolate immediately and arrange a PCR test – do not go to work and do not meet up with other people.
“If you are identified as a close contact it is vital that you restrict your movements.”
Today’s figures come after the Government announced new restrictions.
From Sunday midnight, all restaurants and bars excluding takeaways or delivery services must close at 8pm.
There should be no indoor events after 8pm and for indoor events scheduled earlier in the day, attendance should be limited to 50% of venue capacity or 1,000 people, whichever is lower.
Attendance at all outdoor events should be limited to 50% of venue capacity or 5,000 people whichever is lower.
Wedding receptions can take place after 8pm but with a capacity limit of 100 guests.
The Taoiseach also gave an update on restricted movement advice for all close contacts of confirmed cases.
For those who have received a booster one week ago, they will have to restrict movement for five days and take three antigen tests.
For people who have not received a booster, they will have to restrict their movement for 10 days.
All people arriving into the country from overseas will be required to have an antigen or PCR test in line with the vaccination or recovery status.
All passengers arriving into Ireland should not be advised to conduct antigen testing on a daily basis for a period of five consecutive days commencing one the day of arrival.
