Four more clusters of COVID-19 diagnoses have been confirmed in meat processing plants over the past week, bringing the total to 16.
They account for 828 cases, an increase of 328 over the seven days.
Meat Industry Ireland has said it is disappointed by the rise, and is taking guidance from the HSE to prevent further outbreaks.
The death toll from the virus now stands at 1,561, and there are 24,251 confirmed cases.
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The HSE says it will stop telling employers their workers’ COVID-19 test results.
The Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) is investigating a number complaints about the practice, which the HSE says took place “only in the most exceptional circumstances.”
It has now suspended the practice while the DPC investigates.
Yesterday, the Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony HOlohan described it as a “breach of someone’s confidentiality - full stop.”
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The Justice Minister has apologised for the way a direct provision centre in County Kerry was opened.
In an open letter published in the Kerryman newspaper Charlie Flanagan said he is sorry for its opening it without proper consultation with the community.
The centre at the Skellig Star was opened in mid-March and at least 25 of its residents have since tested positive for COVID-19.
Locals have called for it to be closed, warning that social distancing is not possible at the centre; however, Minister Flanagan says it will remain open.
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Laid-off Debenhams workers say they'll block any trucks removing stock from Irish shops.
They're now relying on the state to pay their redundancy packages as bosses move to liquidate the assets of the retailer's Irish arm.
Staff will protest at Leinster House later this morning calling on the government to delay the wind-up of the company.
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Menthol cigarettes are being removed from shop shelves today as a ban comes into force.
Authorities are hopeful the ban will stop children form picking up the habit.
The Royal College of Physicians is welcoming the ban.
