THE NATIONAL PUBLIC Health Emergency team met this evening to discuss the current situation facing Ireland, as cases of Covid-19 continue to rise.
There is considerable speculation that other counties will need additional restrictions, as health officials painted a bleak picture of the challenge facing Ireland.
Speaking to the TheJournal.ie, the Department of Health said that the department “can confirm that NPHET met today, chaired by the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tony Holohan”.
The Department of Health has confirmed a further 364 new cases of Covid-19 in Ireland today and no additional deaths.
Yesterday, there were 614 new cases of the virus confirmed here.
Government sources say there’s no indication yet as to what will be considered amid the NPHET meeting.
Several ministers were taken aback by tonight’s meeting as they said NPHET last Thursday thought it was unwarranted to move all of the country to Level 3.
They queried where there has been a change in approach only a few days later.
There is currently no new plan for cabinet to meet. Cabinet is still scheduled to meet on Tuesday.
Any recommendation will go to an oversight group before cabinet.
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Public health officials have urged people to reduce the number of contacts they have each week in a bid to suppress the virus.
Dr Tony Holohan has returned as Chief Medical Officer after a period of temporary leave. He chaired the NPHET meeting this evening.
With cases rising across the country, there are questions over whether more counties will join Dublin and Donegal at Level 3.
Read More: NPHET convenes amid growing concern over rise in cases · TheJournal.ie