Leo Varadkar has given the strongest indication to date about when Ireland's extra bank holiday might fall in 2022.
It was proposed last year that an extra public holiday should be put in place to recognise the sacrifices of frontline workers throughout the pandemic.
St Brigid's Day emerged as the frontrunner of preferred dates for the extra day off but this has since been placed on the backburner.
Instead, it looks like Ireland will be in line for a 'double' bank holiday as a tribute to the work of healthcare staff as well as in remembrance of those who died from Covid-19.
The Tanaiste confirmed that one date is being "worked on" after a clear favourite emerged for the bonus day off.
Mr Varadkar said that while no formal decision has been made, a double bank holiday for St Patrick's Day is being considered, which would be March 17 and 18.
Additionally, a permanent bank holiday for St Brigid's Day, which falls on February 1, would be adopted from 2023 under the proposals.
"No formal decision made yet but what we're working on is a proposal to have a double bank holiday for St Patrick's Day so that would be March 17 and 18 and then a new permanent holiday for St Brigid's Day which would come into effect in 2023," he told RTE's News at One.
"But we just haven't pushed the button on that yet, we're still fighting this pandemic, it's not over yet and the purpose of the day would be to remember those who have been lost and to recognise all of the people who have done phenomenal work during this period.
"It just seems it's too early to make a decision on that given that this isn't over."
The Fine Gael leader told the same programme that while Covid continues to surge in Ireland, there is some reason for optimism.
He confirmed that if the Omicron wave peaks in the coming weeks then the government will be open to easing restrictions in February.
The current guidelines are in place until January 30, which officials currently considering whether to ease hospitality rules and close contact and self-isolation measures.
"We're probably the only country in Europe where for two years we haven't been able to stand in a bar or go to your office if you want to," he said.
Asked if he would like to see Covid close contact rules relaxed, Mr Varadkar added: "I would, essentially with any public health advice, you do have to balance if it would cause more harm than good."
