Tánaiste Micheál Martin will today inform Cabinet of planned reforms to the Defence Forces in the wake of a report into bullying and harassment in the military. 

The Independent Review Group highlighted serious concerns about the Defence Forces and a culture which fostered bullying, harassment, sexual assault and misconduct. 

It contains a number of actions up to the end of 2024 - starting with a focus on culture and governance reform, including changes to the way Defence Force personnel can report issues. 

COVID-19

Separately, the Health Minister will give a Covid warning to his colleagues this morning as Stephen Donnelly presents a plan to deal with winter viral infections. 

The HSE believes Covid, flu and RSV could have significant levels of circulation through the autumn and winter. 

A COVID vaccination centre. Photo: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

A vaccine programme for Covid-19 and flu will start in the first week of October free of charge for some people. 

Ireland has also secured a supply of the new adapted Pfizer vaccine which will be used as boosters to those eligible.

Main image: Micheál Martin.