Heroic healthcare workers battling at the frontline have been hailed for their tireless efforts after Ireland recorded zero coronavirus deaths for the first time in two months.
Department of Health chiefs announced on Monday evening that there were no additional deaths from the killer bug.
It was the first time there had been no deaths recorded since March 21.
HSE chief Paul Reid took to social media to praise the brave staff who have been at the forefront of the fight against the crisis.
He said: "No new deaths announced today from #Covid19. Huge credit to the public. But I also want to thank all healtcare workers.
"Managing ICU surge, testing & tracing centres, community assessment hubs, isolation centres, teleHealth. All of these, and more, make a difference."
Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald also expressed her gratitude to the "courageous and selfless" healthcare workers.
She said: "We are still in a major fight with this cruel virus and I encourage everybody to keep going.
"We must do everything to secure the progress the Irish people have won over the last couple of months. I know it is tough at times, but we have to stay the course.
"However, today is a day for hope and for optimism. It is a day to thank our courageous and selfless frontline healthcare workers.
"They have taken incredible risks and made extraordinary sacrifices in their efforts to save lives and in treating the ill.
"So many people are still with us today due to their expertise and commitment. That should never be forgotten."
The Dublin Central TD, who has made a full recovery after contracting the deadly disease, also extended her sympathies to the families of the 1,606 people who have lost their lives.
She added: "As we look forward with positivity and resolve, my thoughts are with all those grieving the loss of a loved one and with those currently sick with the virus.
"I wish you strength for the road ahead. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the eight people who died in the north today.
"As we mark this day of hope, let us recommit our efforts to overcoming the challenge posed by Covid-19. There is still a way to go but we will get there together."
A further 59 cases of coronavirus were confirmed on Monday evening, bringing the total number of infections in Ireland to 24,698.
