There have been 264 new cases of coronavirus in the Republic.
Two further deaths have also been reported.
Of today's new cases, 79 were in Dublin, 24 in Donegal, 19 in Kerry, 18 in Limerick, 14 in Kildare, 14 in Wexford, and the remaining 96 cases spread across 16 other counties.
As of 2pm this afternoon, there were 215 COVID-19 patients being treated in Irish hospitals - including 33 in intensive care.
The national 14-day incidence rate of the virus is now at 83 per 100,000.
This evening, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he shares Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan's concerns over the high number of new cases reported yesterday.
He said people's behaviour over the next week will be crucial if they want to ensure they can have a safe Christmas with family and loved ones.
