Figures released in relation to the Covid-19 virus in Ireland show that 17 more people have died and there are 325 new cases.
Four females and 13 males passed away in figures released yesterday evening and the median age of these deaths is 84.
There have now been 71 deaths in the Republic of Ireland.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Department of Health, Chief Medical Officer, Tony Holohan, said eight deaths occurred in the east, three in the south, three in the north-west and three in the west.
Mr Holohan also said that the number of contacts per case is now averaging at three which shows that the government restrictions are having some effect, although it’s still too early to say.
Previously, the number of contacts had been up to fifteen in some cases.
The positivity rate for tests carried out increased from 6% to 15%, which is largely believed to be due to the new criteria required for testing, introduced last week.
Further recommendations will be given for nursing homes tomorrow and The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet again on Friday.
Combining the most recent figures from Northern Ireland, 99 people have died across the country and there are now 3,821 cases on the island of Ireland.