More than 40,000 people are waiting to be tested for coronavirus.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) says they're beginning to work through the backlog and that more testing sites will come into operation next week.
In the South East drive through testing centres are operational in Waterford City, Kilkenny and Clonmel. The facility in Wexford is expected to open tomorrow.
785 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the country - including 147 healthcare workers. As of Thursday, there were 8 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Waterford, an increase of 1 since Wednesday.
The HSE held a COVID-19 briefing today and revealed that they are doubling the capacity in hospitals across the country and adding another 10,000 beds.
COVID-19 (coronavirus) update https://t.co/qsG12wiMPM
— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) March 22, 2020
Almost 1,200 people are now involved with contacting tracing in coronavirus cases, which the HSE says it at capacity.
On testing kits, the HSE said almost 40,000 sample collection kits are being distributed - while a further 20,000 will arrive on Wednesday.
Negotiations are also ongoing with China to secure a further 100,000 per week.
Meanwhile, the HSE plans to spend almost €240m on personal protective equipment for healthcare workers.
The executive usually spends €15m a year on the clothing but has upped its efforts following the outbreak of COVID-19.
That will include 11 million masks, one million face shields, one million goggles and about 400,000 gowns and suits.
An order is also to be placed in the coming weeks to the sum of €175m.
Some 147 healthcare workers have so far tested positive for the coronavirus.
The CEO of the HSE, Paul Reid says they are placing more orders.
"Some particular areas - some particular hospitals, some particular community settings - may be running tighter than others.
"So we have been looking at some redistribution already.
"We have been securing in the past numbers of weeks very significant orders."
