There have been a further 4,152 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland.
As of 8.00am today, there are 543 patients hospitalised with the virus - of which 118 are in ICU.
There's been a total of 5,788 deaths related to COVID-19 here, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) says.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan says they're still awaiting 'firm conclusions' on the Omicron variant.
"As noted by the World Health Organisation today, new data on the Omicron variant are emerging every day.
"But scientists need time to complete studies and interpret the results.
"We must be careful about drawing firm conclusions until we have a more complete picture."
But Dr Holohan says they're "optimistic" measures used so far will work against the Omicron variant.
"Our high incidence of disease from COVID-19 is driven by the Delta variant.
"We know how to break the chains of transmission of COVID-19 – these measures have worked against previous variants of COVID-19, they can successfully suppress transmission of the Delta variant and we are optimistic that they will work against the Omicron variant."
And he says he welcomes news of a further expansion of the vaccine programme to children.
Children as young as five-years-old will soon be able to get a vaccine, with NIAC recommending a reduced dose vaccine for them.
Dr Holohan says: "Today's announcement that a COVID-19 vaccine will soon be available to children is welcome news and a significant positive step.
"In the meantime, vaccination remains one of the best ways to protect ourselves from severe illness and death from COVID-19.
"I would encourage anyone yet to receive a first dose to come forward for vaccination as soon as possible.
"Please prioritise your booster vaccine appointment as soon as you are called for it. Do not wait until after Christmas to receive your booster vaccine".
Dr Holohan explains: "The benefits of receiving your booster dose far outweigh any potential risks that may arise in the meantime.
"You will begin to receive the benefit of your booster protection within seven days of receiving your third dose.
"This means that anybody who received their vaccine this week can be confident in the protection the booster will offer them as we move closer to the Christmas period.
"As such, is it vital that all of us prioritise our booster appointments as soon as we receive them or make the time to attend a walk-in vaccination clinic if that option is available."
