The HSE has resumed serial COVID-19 testing of all staff in meat processing factories.
Last week the mass testing regime was suspended, due to an increase in demand for testing in the community.
However, Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue has confirmed the programme resumed on Monday.
Speaking in the Dáil, he said: "I've kept abreast every single day in terms of how this is progressing - I'm doing everything within my Department to work with them to ensure that continues.
"The objective is to ensure - resources allowing - that that serial testing continues, the first series is finalised, and also that it continues to roll on on a two-weekly basis after that."
SIPTU says 1,500 staff in meat plants have tested positive since the coronavirus pandemic began.
Opposition parties had strongly criticised the pause in serial testing at meat plants.
Social Democrats co-leader Róisín Shortall yesterday said the temporary suspension "called into question" the strength of the country's testing and tracing system.
