COVID-19 vaccine registration is now open to everyone aged over 16.
The HSE's online portal has opened to 16 and 17-year-olds this morning, meaning they can sign up for a Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.
In a tweet last night, HSE CEO Paul Reid said teenagers have sacrificed a lot during the pandemic and should be proud of their response.
He said: "Now, it's their turn to be protected. 16 & 17-year-olds can register online to receive their vaccine.
"We'll be aiming to get these done promptly. They deserve it."
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, meanwhile, said work was continuing to vaccinate as many people as possible '"as soon as vaccines are available".
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Registration for those age 16 and 17 for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment will start tomorrow, Tuesday.
It's important that we continue to get as many of our population vaccinated as soon as vaccines are available and following the safety advice of our experts. pic.twitter.com/obZmHN0MD1— Stephen Donnelly (@DonnellyStephen) July 26, 2021
Today's further extension of the vaccine programme means everyone aged over 16 can register for a vaccine via the online portal.
The National Immunisation Advisory Committee is continuing to consider whether to extend the vaccination programme to 12-15 year-olds.
The EMA has given the green light for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines to be used in that age group, but a final recommendation is needed from NIAC before any such rollout here.
Meanwhile, Government ministers will this morning consider plans to increase the number of guests allowed at weddings to 100 from next month.
The number of guests was indicated to increase from 50 to 100 from August 6th - but Tánaiste Leo Varadkar recently said couples shouldn't expect any changes for now.
The Weddings International Professionals Association Ireland has organised a demonstration today in Dublin, where 200 brides-to-be will form a procession from the Department of Health to Government Buildings.
President of the group, Tara Fay, says the Government needs to follow through for couples planning weddings later this summer.
