COVID-19: 25 deaths and 480 new cases confirmed

Another 25 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died, it was reported this evening.

Of the 25 new deaths, 14 were male and 11 were female, while their median age was 82. Sixteen had underlying conditions. There have now been 287 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland.

It was also announced at this evening's briefing by the National Public Health Team that 480 new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed.

The total number of confirmed cases in Ireland is now 7054, however, including test results which have been sent to Germany for testing (which may include tests from older cases) the total figure of those who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in Ireland now stands at 8089. There have been 152 confirmed cases in Westmeath to date.

Earlier today, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced that Ireland's lockdown has been extended for a further 3 weeks.

The measures will now stay in place until Tuesday, May 5. The Taoiseach and the Minister for Health, Simon Harris both said that the measures are being extended because they are saving lives.

The Gardaí Síochana's power to enforce COVID-19 restrictions will also be extended until 5 May.

It was also announced today that the Leaving Cert is to take place in July/August and that the Junior Cert to be replaced by class-based assessments. Joe McHugh, the Minister for Education, also confirmed that all schools are to remain closed until further notice.