The HSE says all it can offer regarding the roll out of vaccine programme is uncertainty

A decision is expected today on whether the AstraZeneca vaccine will be approved for use in Europe

It's possible the European Medicines Agency will place an age restriction on the vaccine, due to insufficient data regarding it's effect on people aged over 65.

Meanwhile the row between the EU and AstraZeneca over vaccine supply has yet to be resolved. 

HSE CEO Paul Reid says it will follow whatever advice the EMA offers. 

"The German view, was there is insufficient data amongst the age groups plus 65. Now, I don't think anybody's saying that it doesn't mean that it won't protect those groups, but just the issue around data. Certainly the UK view through their own MHRA and the public health, which would be widely respected bodies, their view is it's been shown to be safe and effective, and it gives a high degree of protection.