The Taoiseach has said that Ireland has reached two major milestones in our vaccine rollout programme.
At present, 90% of adults over the age of 18 are now fully vaccinated.
In further good news, it's projected that by the end of today, seven million doses will have been administered.
The CEO of the HSE, Paul Reid, hailed this development as "brighter news" but expressed concern about the high volume of cases that are still in schools.
"Brighter news. Progress on a range of areas related to #COVID19. Today 90% of adults are fully vaccinated with 92.5% partially. Hospitalisations are trending downwards. 329 in hospital, 54 in ICU. Overall testing positivity reducing but high volumes in schools still," said Reid on Twitter.
This positive development was echoed by recent comments made by Dr Tony Holohan.
The CMO issued a positive message about infection rates across the country, with indicators particularly encouraging among one group.
Dr Holohan said hospitalisation and ICU admissions are beginning to stabilise.
He said: "Overall the incidence of Covid-19 infection is declining across the country, the five day moving average is 1,407 and we see a stabilisation of ICU and hospital admissions.
"Incidence of Covid-19 in adolescents and young adults is falling significantly and we are seeing early encouraging signs that the rate of infection plateauing in children of school-going age. NPHET will continue to monitor this trend over the coming weeks.
"Vaccination continues to offer the best protection against the most severe effects of Covid-19 including hospitalisation and death.
"Anyone yet to avail of vaccination is strongly encouraged to do so. Local vaccination sites are available on hse.ie."
Earlier this week, there was an easing of restrictions on organised indoor and outdoor events and mass gatherings and from September 20, indoor activities such as sports, arts, culture and dance classes can take place with limits of 100 people where all are fully vaccinated.
However, October 22 has been earmarked as the day which will see the end of all legal restrictions on society and the economy with a major reopening expected.
This day is expected to see the lifting of all restrictions subject to the 90% vaccination target being reached and the incidence of the virus remaining stable.
From this date, nightclubs will be allowed to return, while pubs are expected to have their 11.30pm curfew extended.
Requirements for social distancing, mask-wearing in outdoor and indoor private settings and limits on numbers at events and activities will also be lifted on October 22.
Proof of vaccination status will no longer be required with an exception for international travel also from this date too.
