Health Minister Stephen Donnelly confirms all over 16s can access booster programme from Sunday

“From this Sunday (January 2) all those aged 16 and older who are eligible to receive a booster vaccine can access this service via HSE vaccination centres,” he said.

"GPs and community pharmacies will also be providing this service, on an appointment basis."

With a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases, the roll out of the booster to over 16s was brought forward by over a week from January 10th.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin, also confirmed the news.

“Our booster vaccine rollout will be open to all groups aged 16 and above from this Sunday.

“You can book a Vaccine Centre appointment from tonight, or contact your GP or pharmacist.

“Boosters are our best protection against Omicron, so please get one when you can.”

It comes as there 20,110 confirmed cases of Covid-19 today while the numbers in hospital increased to 682.

The number of patients in intensive care units stands at 86.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan said: “Once again, we are reporting another very high number of confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Ireland.

"The number of people in hospital with Covid-19 is continuing to increase,” Dr Holohan added.

“I know many people have cancelled or postponed planned social and family events, not just for New Year’s Eve, but right throughout the Christmas period.

"The occasions in life we most look forward to have been changed utterly by this pandemic. However, these collective efforts are necessary to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our health service."