Latest figures show a fifth of Covid patients in ICU.
The head of the HSE says hospitals are under "severe pressure" with around 20% of Covid patients in ICU.
The executive is using private hospitals to increase capacity by around 2,800 to 3,000 beds per week.
It comes as just 17 adult ICU beds are available nationwide.
Paul Reid says urgent non-covid care will be provided in private hospitals:

Trump Heads West For Irish Open After Dublin Engagements
TikTok Agrees To Appear Before Oirechtas Media Committee
Kildare-Based Ambulance Service CEO Criticises HSE After NAS Workers Allege Harassment And Misogyny
Gerry Hutch's Son Remanded In Custody For Organised Crime Charge
Ryanair Boss Stands By His Comment Comparing Other Airlines To Rapists
The European Central Bank Announces Interest Rate Increases
Gardaí And Europol Investigate Horse Trafficking In Kildare And Other Counties
Vice Chair Of Kildare Club Believes GAA Are "Seriously Lacking Leadership"