The Government has scrapped plans for subsidised antigen testing.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly told RTÉ the market had already intervened to reduce the cost of the tests for people.
Minister Donnelly also said this morning it’s likely Omicron is already in Ireland, and it’s put a question mark over whether or not there can be a meaningful Christmas.
The heads of the three Government parties will meet with NPHET officials tonight to discuss the situation.
Plans for subsidised antigen tests have been sidelined because retailers are offering them at a low cost anyway.
Meanwhile a mandate for over nines and children in third class and above to wear masks in shops, schools and on public transport are likely to be approved by Cabinet tomorrow.
