Taoiseach Micheal Martin has said the vaccine rollout is running "effectively and efficiently" as he hailed the progress made in recent weeks.
Mr Martin posted a video on Twitter where he praised HSE workers for their hard work getting jabs into arms.
And the Taoiseach marked a "significant" day for the country following the return of outdoor dining for pubs and restaurants.
"Today was a very significant day for pubs and restaurants with the reopening of outdoor hospitality that of course re-illustrates the progress we are making in reopening society and our economy," he said.
"The vaccination programme continues to roll out very effectively and efficiently.
"Close to 55% of the population have had one dose with close to 26% fully vaccinated.
"A tremendous tribute must be paid to the HSE, GPs and all those who have been involved in the vaccination programme."
There were joyous scenes across the country as restaurants and pubs welcomed customers once again.
Beer gardens were bustling and parks were packed while the mercury soared to 20C on Monday – hotter than Porto, Dortmund and Strasbourg.
Cities such as Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick were a hive of activity as families and groups of friends met up to enjoy their new freedoms.
Around 4,000 pubs swung open their doors for the first time in nearly six months to cater for hordes of outdoor customers, with an estimated 25,000 staff returning to work.
Share your views on masks by taking our short survey here or below:
It will not be until July 5, however,when people can once again enjoy a pint indoors when the next raft of restrictions will be eased.
However, almost 50 people were arrested over the Bank Holiday weekend as gardai came under attack with glass bottles and some members being injured as raucous scenes broke out across the country.
In a statement, gardai said members engaged with crowds on Sunday night in Stephen’s Green, Temple Bar and South William Street and encountered “significant numbers of groups of youths” who were loitering around the city centre, not involved in outdoor socialising.
In total, 14 people were arrested for public order offences in Dublin City Centre, including three juveniles who were released and referred for Juvenile Diversion Programme.
Four persons received an Adult Caution, and seven people were charged with Court proceedings to follow.
