Health Minister Simon Harris says it's an "insult" to the efforts of doctors and nurses tackling the coronavirus outbreak that people are still gathering in large numbers in some pubs.
HSE chief executive Paul Reid has also urged pubs to "wise up quick" after videos of people crowding into them.
It's despite restrictions on mass gatherings being in place and guidelines on social distancing.
Many pubs and bars across the country have now voluntarily opted to temporarily shut their doors, amid advice that people should try to keep two metres (6.5 feet) between themselves and others.
While some venues and restaurants have been implemented measures to ensure social distancing advice is followed, others have said it's not possible given the size and nature of their venues.
A large number of pubs across the country - including some of the most popular venues in Cork, Dublin, Galway and Limerick - announced yesterday that they'll shut for at least two weeks.
However, reports emerged on Saturday night that significant crowds were still gathering in some areas, including Dublin's Temple Bar.
In a tweet, Health Minister Simon Harris said crowds gathering in confined spaces was an "insult" in the efforts of healthcare workers.
He said: "Not far from here, nurses & doctors are working to prepare for the impact of a global pandemic. Everyone is working 24/7.
Not far from here, nurses & doctors are working to prepare for the impact of a global pandemic. Everyone is working 24/7. This is an insult to their efforts. There is very clear public health advice. Follow it. All options will be kept under constant review #CoronaVirusUpdates https://t.co/XQvJ7tC13D
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) March 14, 2020
Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said people who were ignoring the public health advice were "jeopardising" people who weren't fit and healthy.
A message to those in our pubs and restaurants who are ignoring #COVIDー19 recommendations on social distancing. You may think you’re fit and healthy and unstoppable, but you’re jeopardising people who aren’t. Please think of them and follow the advice. We can beat this together.
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) March 14, 2020
39 new cases of coronavirus were confirmed in the Republic of Ireland last night.
One more person has also died - a male in the east of the country with an underlying medical condition.
There are now 129 confirmed cases here and two deaths.
