Covid-19: Evening Update

Here's a reminder of today's Covid headlines

COVID-19 UPDATE: 581 New Cases

52 patients are being treated in hospital for the virus,  an increase of 2 compared with yesterday's figures.

Of these, 16 are in ICU - up one.

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Head Of HSE Says 55% Of Population Now Fully Vaccinated Against Covid-19

Paul Reid says 70 percent of people have also had a first dose while 275,000 vaccines have been administered so far this week.

He says he expects more than 64 percent of the population to be fully vaccinated by the end of this month but that's all dependent on vaccine supplies.

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Health Officials Urging People To Get Covid Vaccinations As Quickly As Possible

It follows a small rise in hospitalisations over the past week.

The Deputy Chief Medical Officer says they're concerned about the increased transmissibility of the Delta variant.

But Dr Ronan Glynn says the measures for coping with the virus remain the same.

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Nursing Home Visits Set To Return To Closer To Normal Within Next 10 Days

New guidance from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre says restrictions should be eased by 19th July.

The new rules state routine visits won't  have to be scheduled in advance, a list of nominated visitors is no longer necessary and visiting times will no longer be limited.

The HPSC also recommends that residents should face fewer restrictions in relation to outings or visits outside the nursing home.

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Civil Rights Group: Government's Plans To Fast-Track Proposals For Access To Indoor Dining Inappropriate And Not Realistic

Cabinet will meet on Tuesday to consider its reopening, with the EU Digital Covid Cert expected to be adapted and used as proof of vaccination or recent infection.

The government has indicated a July 26th return "at the latest", and says legislation will be needed to allow it happen.

Executive Director with the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, Liam Herrick, says there isn't enough time to consider some very serious issues.