Cabinet 'full square' behind Donnelly after weekend of muddled messaging

Meanwhile, the Government is expected to have a decision on extending the gap between jabs by the end of the week, according to Mr Donohoe.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly raised and then ruled out changing the vaccine rollout to inoculate people between 18 and 30 ahead of those in older age groups, drawing yet another round of sharp criticism. 

The Cabinet stands "full square" behind health minister Stephen Donnelly, a fellow minister has said.

Further Education Minister Simon Harris said on Monday the Government is behind Mr Donnelly, who over the weekend raised and then ruled out changing the vaccine rollout to inoculate people between 18 and 30 ahead of those in older age groups.