The Taoiseach says the current increase in Covid-19 cases is likely to hit hospital settings hardest.
It comes as over 1000 people are being treated for the virus in hospitals nationwide for the second day.
Micheál Martin says the upsurge in cases within these settings, has contributed to the long wait-times patients are facing.
Speaking before Cabinet this morning, he also acknowledged the impact it will have on healthcare staff:
"It's very clear to me that COVID-19 remains a significant disruptive influence in our society, in the workplace, in hospitals in particular, and is a factor in a lot of the waiting times, extra protocols that we introduce in our hospitals. Extra pressure arises for our staff in our hospitals because of the fact that people have infection."
