The Chief Medical Officer has renewed his appeal for people to limit their contacts as much as possible over Christmas. Dr Tony Holohan's comments come after 922 new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed yesterday, the third day in a row the figure has exceeded the 900 mark.
Eight more people with the virus have died. Dr Holohan said none of the indicators of the virus are showing encouraging signs and Ireland now has the fastest growing incidence rate in the EU.
He said the best present people can give to their loved ones this Christmas is to strictly adhere to the public health advice.
Yesterday, the first of the new Level 5 restrictions came into effect with restaurants, gastropubs and cafes closing except for takeaway and delivery.