A number of changes to current Covid measures have been made following a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
The new measures were decided upon as new information and data on the Omicron variant of Covid-19 emerged.
The new data shows that although the Omicron variant is more transmissible than previous strains of the virus, it generally causes less severe illness.
The Omicron variant is now thought to be responsible for 96% of all Covid cases in Ireland.
Travel
The Cabinet agreed that new travel rules that required a vaccinated passenger to produce a negative Covid test on arrival would be dropped.
However, unvaccinated passengers will still be required to show a negative PCR test taken up to 72 hours before arrival.
The change to the restrictions is expected to come into effect in the coming days after Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly signs the new regulations.
Pubs
Taoiseach Micheal Martin indicated on Wednesday that the Government is considering a new measure that would people needing a booster vaccine to get into pubs and restaurants.
The news comes as an update to the EU Digital Covid Cert is to be issued for travel as soon as next week.
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The HSE is currently updating those who have received the booster jab's certs.
Asked if people will be required to show their updated cert to enter pubs and restaurants, Mr Martin said: "I think the HSE are now working on including the booster within the vaccination record and cert.
"Now, Government decisions will have to be taken then in terms of the policy application of that, but it is very clear to us that the benefits of the booster are very significant right now in preventing protection but above all preventing severe illness from Omicron ."
The Department of Health reported a further 17,656 confirmed cases of Covid-19 on Wednesday, with 928 patients now being treated in hospital, 94 of whom are in ICU.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said the number of people being admitted to hospital with the virus is 'concerning'.
He said: "It is concerning to see the rising number of people with Covid-19 in hospital. This means that our collective efforts to follow the public health advice remain very important.
"I know that many have sacrificed valuable time with friends and family to protect themselves and the wider community. These continued efforts are helping to slow the spread of this virus and will protect many from infection in the next few weeks.
"The Covid-19 vaccine booster will protect the majority of people from severe disease. The booster programme is now open to everyone aged 16 and over. If you are not yet fully vaccinated or are yet to receive a booster dose, please take this opportunity to protect yourself as soon as possible."
