He said fully vaccinated people can feel comfortable meeting up "in all settings".

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Tony Holohan has encouraged people to get a "Covid-19 vaccine when it's offered to you" as 70% of cases in Ireland have now been identified as the Delta variant. He said that "in excess of all cases" are now the Delta strain of Covid-19 in the country. “In excess of 70% of all cases are now accounted for by the Delta variant," he said. "While this variant continues to present a threat, those of us who are fully vaccinated can have confidence in their vaccine and should feel comfortable meeting with other fully vaccinated people in all settings." He added that the Delta variant "continues to present a risk" to people who are unvaccinated or waiting on a second dose. “Unfortunately, the Delta variant continues to present a risk to those of us who are unvaccinated or waiting for a second dose of vaccine - we need to continue to follow the public health advice, manage your contacts, avoid crowds, wear a mask, wash your hands. "Most importantly get your Covid-19 vaccine when it is offered to you.” Minister for HealthStephen Donnelly confirmed on Monday that half of Ireland's adult population will be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 by the end of today. Confirming the news on Twitter on Monday, Donnelly said: "By the end of today, half our adult population will have full vaccination. "This will continue to grow in the days and weeks ahead. It's important that everyone continues to ensure they get their second dose."