Why is Covid so prevalent in Ireland compared with other European countries?

Ireland has one of the highest levels of Covid-19 in Europe and the numbers of cases, hospitalisations and deaths are once again trending in the wrong direction.

Against that backdrop, the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) meets today to consider what recommendations it will make to Cabinet in relation to Friday’s planned easing of restrictions.

On today's In The News podcast, Health Editor Paul Cullen talks to Conor Pope about why Ireland is struggling despite high levels of vaccinations.

And political correspondent Jennifer Bray explains the thinking in Government about how to handle the deteriorating situation.