The Government intends to publish a road map by the end of this month for the easing or ending of remaining Covid-19 restrictions, according to a statement published this afternoon.
The statement was published following a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Covid-19, and contains a detailed update on the current situation.
The committee was told that 385,000 community tests for Covid-19 were conducted in July, and that over six million tests have been completed to date.
Testing capacity is described as "satisfactory" with additional surge capacity available.
The Vaccination Programme has delivered over six million doses, with 3.2 million people receiving first doses and over 2.85 million fully vaccinated.
Nearly 85% of people aged 16 or over have either registered for or received a first vaccine dose.
Walk-in centres around the country last weekend saw over 30,000 people receive a first dose.
The statement said the Government "understands the frustration felt by those sectors of the economy and society that remain severely restricted or fully closed".
However, it goes on to say the continued restrictions are "based on public health advice".
It said the Government "noted" the concerns expressed by church leaders over communions and confirmations, adding that it is hoped the restrictions around these ceremonies can be lifted in September, subject to the public health situation at that time.
The statement also said that further engagement between the Government and faith leaders will take place in the coming weeks.
The statement ended by saying the Government intends to monitor the progress of the disease and vaccination programme with the aim of publishing a road map by the end of August for the easing or removal of remaining restrictions.
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