It could be early 2022 before the majority of people in the Republic are vaccinated against Covid-19, according to an infectious disease expert.
The three-stage roll-out plan was announced yesterday, with nursing homes and large hospitals set to be the first to benefit.
The Health Minister said it could start by the end of the year, as EU regulators meet earlier than planned to discuss approval.
It comes as a further 8 deaths and 329 new cases of the virus were recorded here yesterday.
Meanwhile Pharmacies are prepared to administer dozens of Covid-19 vaccine doses every day, according to the Irish Pharmacy Union.
The government says GP offices and pharmacies will play an increasing role in vaccine administration, as larger amounts of the vaccine become available next year.
The Irish Pharmacy Union, says they can play a key role in delivering the vaccine to local communities
