Two more people with COVID-19 have died in the Republic.

One death that had previously been classed as COVID-related has been denotified, so the number of deaths now stands at 1,715.

Twenty-two new cases of the virus have also been confirmed, while 16 have been denotified, bringing the total number of cases here to 25,374.

Over 399,000 tests have been completed, including almost 19,000 in the last week.

"Of the 22 confirmed cases we are reporting to you today, nine of these were diagnosed in people under the age of 35. It is important for us all to remember that COVID-19 is a disease that can affect everyone, of any age or background. No one should feel that this is a disease that does not affect them," commented the Department of Health's chief medical officer, Dr Tony Holohan.

He emphasised that because the virus is highly contagious, "the return of widespread community transmission remains a very real risk".

"To protect us all, especially our oldest and most vulnerable, personal preventative behaviours, such as good and frequent hand washing, social distancing and respiratory etiquette, remain as crucial as they were at the outset of this crisis," he said.

On Friday, the Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, announced a further acceleration of Ireland's reopening. For more on this, click here.

Phase 2 of the Government's plan for reopening society and business remains in place until June 29. For more on this, click here.