New criteria for COVID-19 testing is being introduced early next week.
Currently, only people in at-risk groups or those with two symptoms can be sent for testing.
From next week, anyone with a fever, cough or shortness of breath will be able to get a test, but vulnerable people will still be prioritised.
Figures released last night show there have now been 18,184 confirmed cases of the virus here, while the death toll - including 'probable' coronavirus-related deaths - has now risen above 1,000.
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The HSE says it's currently processing around 4,000 tests for coronavirus per day.
Hospitals are turning them around within 24 to 48 hours.
As of midnight on Thursday, 127,000 tests had been carried out.
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The Health Minister is reminding people not to be lazy when it comes to social distancing and cocooning this weekend.
Simon Harris says he understands people may be feeling frustrated.
However, he said it's vital people stay the course as there's still a 'large amount' of coronavirus in the country.
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A 50-year-old man from Co Armagh has been arrested in Dover after cocaine worth £3 million was seized at the port on Thursday night.
Two other men from the UK have also been arrested, while the PSNI have searched properties in Derry and Armagh.
The drugs were found in a truck that had arrived on a ferry from France.
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Fianna Fáil is calling on universities to immediately refund students who have already paid fees for campus accommodation.
TD Thomas Byrne says many are struggling financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic and they shouldn't have to wait months for refunds.
He says that while most colleges have agreed to refunds, there are reports of delays in students receiving the money back.
