The government is preparing to establish temporary mortuaries to deal with an expected surge in COVID-19 deaths.
Nine patients have died in the Republic so far – with 1,564 confirmed cases.
Meanwhile, the total on the island Ireland is 16 deaths and 1,773 cases.
Mortuaries
This morning, Liz Canavan, Chair of the Senior Officials Group for the COVID-19 emergency response, said officials are now preparing for a surge in cases in the coming weeks.
“We are, as everyone now knows, in the midst of a very serious public health crisis,” she said.
“We are still largely in the preparation phase; getting the facilities of the country ready and putting the necessary infrastructure in place – in particular the medical infrastructure – to deal with the surge when it comes.
“As part of this work, we are also preparing for the wider consequences of the surge, including the deeply sensitive issue of temporary mortuary facilities.”
"Compassion"
She said the preparations will be “guided and informed by the need for compassion and care for families who will be affected.”
“As with all matters in this crisis, we will keep you informed every step of the way,” she said.
“Thank you for your understanding on this very particularly sensitive matter.”
