The Department of Health's confirmed 305 new cases of Covid-19.
49 people are in hospital with the disease, that's an increase of two in a 24 hour period.
16 patients are in ICU, up one since yesterday.
Meanwhile, new laws to make it legal for bars and restaurants to serve alcohol outdoors are set to be approved by the cabinet this afternoon.
A remote cabinet meeting will approve a short bill aimed at giving clarity to businesses, Gardaí and local authorities about serving drinks at temporary outdoor seating.
Gardaí have been asked to show discretion despite concerns about the legality of outdoor drinking.
Sources say they hope the bill clarifying the issue will pass all stages in the Oireachtas this week.
As of midnight, Sunday 27th June, we are reporting 305* confirmed cases of #COVID19.
16 in ICU. 49 in hospital.
*Daily case numbers may change due to future data review, validation and update.— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) June 28, 2021
Government To Examine Delta Spread
The Tánaiste says the government will examine whether any delay in opening indoor dining will have a meaningful impact on the spread of the new Delta variant of Covid.
The cabinet sub-committee on COVID-19 will meet tonight to consider data from NPHET.
Late Meetings For Ministers
It will be a late night meeting for Ministers tonight.
The cabinet sub-committee is due to meet after 9pm.
Health officials will give their take on the risks of the spread of the Delta variant.
Also, whether re-opening indoor dining on July 5th is wise.
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar says any delay will need to be justified:
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Cabinet sub-committee on COVID will meet around 9/9.30pm tonight to consider NPHET and NIAC advice on re-opening & vaccines. Likely an early announcement tomorrow.
Cabinet meets at 9am and announcement has to be before the Dáil sits at 2pm— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) June 28, 2021
NIAC Advice Is Due Too
Separately NIAC is also giving the government advice.
So that's on whether or not the AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccines can be offered to under 50s.
It would potentially speed up the roll-out to younger people.
Also, it may have an impact on the cabinet's decision around re-opening.
Ministers are due to meet at 9am tomorrow, with their announcement at about lunchtime.
