The number of COVID patients in Irish hospitals has fallen to its lowest point in nearly nine months.

Last night, there were 69 coronavirus patients in hospital – a 29.5% decrease on the same day last week.

It is the lowest figure since September 16th last year.

Meanwhile, the number of patients in intensive care has dropped 25% since last week to 26.

The five-day moving average cases now stands at 418, compared to 426 on Sunday.

Meanwhile, some 55% of the adult population has received at least one vaccine dose.

It comes amid a major easing of restrictions around the country yesterday with the resumption of outdoor dining in pubs and restaurants and the reopening of gyms, theatres and cinemas.

That followed a weekend in which Gardaí used batons and shields to disperse crowds of young people in Dublin city Centre.

Three gardaí were injured after glass bottles were thrown at members, while 33 arrests were made over the course of the weekend.

The incidents have sparked concern about plans for an 'outdoor summer', though some ministers have expressed hope the reopening of outdoor hospitality will lead to more controlled scenes over the coming weeks.

The Irish Council of Civil Liberties (ICCL) has called for a full review of the Garda actions.