LATEST: Taoiseach says further restrictions can’t be ruled out as another case of Omicron variant detected here

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he could not rule out further restrictions as another case of the Omicron variant was detected in Ireland.

It comes as the Department of Health this evening confirmed a further 4,022 people have contracted Covid-19 with 530 patients now being treated in hospital for the virus, of which 115 are in ICU.

Earlier today, Health Service Executive (HSE) Chief Clinical Officer Dr Colm Henry said a number of potential Omicron cases are being investigated and that the variant will become dominant.

The Taoiseach said the Government would have to follow what is happening with the new variant across the UK and Europe.

Mr Martin said the Coalition will always listen to public health advice before making decisions.

“It’s challenging but the early signs are that we are looking at a more infectious variant that may not, but the jury is well out on this, be as damaging from a disease perspective,” he added.