The Government has requested early deliveries of the AstraZeneca vaccine so that it is ready to be administered in GP clinics, pharmacies and in mass vaccination centres as soon as it is approved later this month.
The vaccine has been described as a "game changer" in the country's vaccination programme because it is easier to store and because Ireland is entitled to 3.3 million doses of it.
A spokesperson for Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly confirmed to RTÉ News that discussions are under way to secure early deliveries so that vaccinations can begin immediately after its expected approval in two weeks time.
The Minister has made a request to acquire shipments in advance and this is being "actively pursued" the spokesperson said. This