Nphet backs further loosening of restrictions with government under pressure to reopen live entertainment

The Government is under increasing pressure to reopen live events after Dr Tony Holohan said outdoor events like Electric Picnic would not raise concerns if the attendees were fully vaccinated. Picture: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie

Health officials have backed the Government's plan to further loosen restrictions on the economy and society despite a further 18 deaths in the space of a week and confirmation of 2,000 more cases.

After a meeting of the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet), members agreed to leave the ultimate decision on the roadmap for reopening society to the Government. Their overall message is that as the numbers of people who are fully vaccinated rises, more options become available.