LATEST: Over 1,400 new cases of virus as NPHET backs easing of further restrictions

A further 1,413 people have contracted the coronavirus, the Department of Health confirmed this evening.

There are now 290 people in hospital who have tested positive for the disease, a drop of two since yesterday. Of these, the number receiving treatment in intensive care has risen by two to 67.

The latest figures were confirmed as the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) confirmed it has agreed to recommend that the Government proceeds with its plan for a further lifting of restrictions from next Monday.

The requirement for children who are deemed to be close contacts of a confirmed Covid-19 case to be tested and to restrict their movements may also cease at the end of this month.

NPHET agreed the change could be implemented if no significant in-school transmission is seen in the meantime.

It also agreed that masks should not be required for children under 13 years of age, following advice from the Health Information & Quality Authority.