Ministers are expected to consider the latest developments in terms of Covid 19 when they meet later.
The roll out of vaccinations and the current restrictions are likely to be discussed.
Political Correspondent with the Irish Examiner, Daniel Mc Connell says there is a growing belief the restrictions could last for some time.
"There is a genuine concern that once we get into January, when the hospital system is normally at capacity or above capacity anyway, that the system could become overwhelmed in the next few weeks.
"Obviously they have a big decision to take in early January as to when restrictions are going to be lifted.
"They've said they're going to review on January 12th, but there's a very real expectation from speaking to ministers in the last few days that these restrictions could be in place for quite some time.
