Irish vaccine programme to change significantly

A number of cabinet Ministers were blindsided by proposals this afternoon to significantly change the vaccination programme.

After over-70s and those medically vulnerable are vaccinated the system will move to one based on age. It means vaccinations will be offered to the oldest first instead of any particular sector or group.

A number of Ministers were caught off-guard by the announcement, which will mean groups like gardaí, teachers and family carers will not be bumped up the vaccine roll-out list. However, some Ministers believe the new system will streamline the vaccination process and speed it up.