Health officials have reported an additional 589 new cases of Covid.
62 patients are in hospital with the disease, of which 17 are in ICU.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Ronan Glynn says the delta variant accounts for 80% of cases here.
He's added, this is a challenge that is facing all of Europe.
So, restaurants/cafes/pubs likely won't have access to any smartphone app to check Digital Covid Certs until a 'later phase' of re-opening. So when they open next week they'll just be doing an eye-test on the DCCs
— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) July 13, 2021
Meanwhile, opposition parties claim the Government is making a serious and reckless mistake when it comes to re-opening indoor hospitality.
It comes amid confusion from Ministers about whether GPs can issue certs that will allow access to indoor dining.
Members of the opposition are not pulling any punches on this legislation on indoor dining.
They don't like the fact it creates a legal difference between vaccinated or unvaccinated people.
They've also called for the Dáil to sit next week to take more time to properly scrutinise the legislation.
So that's rather than rushing it in over the next few days.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin presented the argument as all or nothing:
"There are choices facing Government and the Oireachtas."
"We can decide not to open indoor hospitality at all."
"That is a decision we can take."
"So is that what people want us to do?"
"If it is, then please articulate that."
Government Spokesman confirms GPs will be able to issue a letter to say someone has recovered from Covid that can be used to access to indoor dining. But full details still being worked out.
— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) July 13, 2021
Confusion Over GPs
The Government has also come under criticsm after several Ministers gave conflicting answers today.
That's on whether people can get a document from their GP to access indoor dining, rather than waiting for the Digital Covid Cert.
The legislation allows for confirmation of vaccination from suitable medical practitioners.
