A further 1,875 COVID cases have been announced this evening.

As of this morning, there were 326 coronavirus patients in Irish hospitals – five fewer than yesterday but 30% more than this day last week.

There were 59 in intensive care – two fewer than yesterday and 13% more than last week.

The five-day moving average in Ireland has increased to 1791.

The five-day moving average. Image: Newstalk

It comes as live events look set to return from next month.

The Cabinet sub-committee on COVID-19 met this afternoon and agreed to meet again on Monday where the timeline for reopening will be finalised.

Restrictions around confirmations, communions and public transport are expected to be the first things to be eased.

Speaking at Government Buildings this evening, the Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he expected September to be a "significant month" as restrictions on live entertainment, theatre and the arts begin to ease.

It is expected restrictions around returning to the workplace will also be eased in September; however, nightclubs will be one of the last things to reopen.