Covid-19: Evening Update
Here's a reminder of today's Covid headlines
COVID-19 UPDATE: 562 New Cases - Highest Daily Total In Nearly A Month
There are 48 patients being treated in hospital for the virus - up 6 on yesterday.
14 of these patients are in ICUs, which hasn't changed in five days
=====
Cork Parents "Furious" Following Government's Postponement Of Religious Sacraments, Such As Baptisms, Communions And Confirmations
That's according to the Rural independent Group who say parents feel utterly let down by the government, as events had been planned in anticipation of previous commitments.
The Bishop of Cork and Ross, Fintan Gavin, told clergy in the diocese, that the sacraments should not go ahead until Government advice changes.
While, the Church of Ireland's Diocese of Cork, Cloyne and Ross has also cancelled over 30 confirmation ceremonies, with Bishop Dr Paul Colton stating that there is, as yet, no indication when they can go ahead.
=====
Pharmacists Receive 10 Calls For Every 1 Available Johnson & Johnson Vaccine From People Aged 18-34
The Irish Pharmacy Union says there's no sign of vaccine hesitancy among the younger age group, who can get the one shot jab in a local chemist from tomorrow.
Vaccination centres will begin offering the AstraZeneca vaccine to them from the following Monday.
Darragh O'Louglin from the Irish Pharmacy Union says due to a shortage in supplies, some people may have to wait to get their jab.
=====
Unvaccinated People Look Set To Be Given Access To Indoor Dining With Negative Covid-19 Test
NPHET has recommended indoor service in pubs and restaurants should only be open to fully vaccinated people.
But the Business Post reports the government is expected to include a testing element with any Covid pass.
Padraig Cribben, chief executive of the Vintners Federation of Ireland, doesn't believe the system is practical.
=====
Reid: Currently No Plan To Prioritise Vaccination Of Teenagers Ahead Of Return To Schools In September
However Paul Reid says "all options and scenarios" are being looked at when it comes to rolling out vaccines to 12 to 15-year-olds.
EU regulators approved the use of the Pfizer jab for teens in May and the National Immunisation Advisory Committee's expected to issue new advice shortly.
Paul Reid says the guidance will determine what happens between now and the start of schools in September.