Future of live events
Pandemic supports are to be removed from live event workers while there is no plan in place to reopen their sector, industry representatives have said.
Representatives of the live music and entertainment sector will this afternoon meet with Arts Minister Catherine Martin, to discuss the possible return of concerts and festivals.
The meeting comes as the Government is expected to announce a new roadmap for the easing of Covid-19 restrictions following a Cabinet meeting on August 31st.
It is thought more options will be available if a higher percentage of vaccination, such as 90 per cent, is achieved, including the easing of restrictions surrounding religious services, including communions and confirmations.
Covid update
There has been a small but "concerning" increase in the number of Covid-19 cases detected in nursing homes over the last number of weeks, according to a representative body from the sector.
Nursing Homes Ireland (NHI) estimates there are currently 15-20 outbreaks in facilities around the country despite very high levels of vaccination among staff and residents.
A further 1,496 cases of Covid-19 were confirmed in the Republic on Tuesday, as public health officials warned of a potential surge linked to the All-Ireland senior hurling final this Sunday.
Dr Tony Holohan, the country’s chief medical officer, said an average of three people with Covid-19 admitted to ICU per day last week had doubled this week to six.
It comes as more than three-quarters of the population over the age of 12 have had a first dose.
Irish in Afghanistan
Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney has said the number of Irish passport holders in Afghanistan waiting to come to Ireland has increased to 33 — 25 adults and eight dependents.
He explained the Government is working closely with its EU partners and the UK to secure places on military flights once Kabul Airport is secured.
Meanwhile, Independent TD and former army ranger Cathal Berry has called on Ireland to deploy up to 12 members of the army ranger wing to Kabul airport to coordinate the extraction of Irish citizens.
College costs
A new guide produced by Technological University (TU) Dublin says students in the capital face costs of up to almost €14,000 if they require accommodation.
The annual Cost of Living Guide notes a considerable increase on projections from the 2019/2020 academic year, when the annual amount was estimated to be just over €12,000.
The estimate for the upcoming year was significantly lower for students who will not require accommodation in Dublin, such as those who will be able to live at home, dropping to just over €6,600 for the period.
