Once the figure drops below one, the number of cases begin to lower.
The National Public Health Emergency Team is meeting to discuss how much progress has been made to suppress the virus since level five restrictions came into effect.
It will look at the 14 day incidence rate, the number of hospitalisations and overall compliance with the measures.
The 'R' number is now estimated to be below 1, but the Taoiseach has said it's unlikely restrictions will be eased earlier than planned.
Immunology expert, Professor Kingston Mills thinks the situation looks positive.
Midlands Hospital Experiencing High Admission Numbers
Retired Taxi Driver Calls For Safer Roundabouts In Laois
Laois County Council Continue Work On Rat Infestation
Laois Psychotherapist Criticises ESRI Report On School Absences
Westmeath Couple Highlights Importance Of Foster Caring
LAWPRO To Host Public Meeting In Laois On Water Quality Upgrades
Revenue Officers Seize Over €8.2m Of Contraband
Minister Urges Insurers To Adopt New Motor Policy Transparency Code
Westmeath Man Jailed For Sexual Abuse Of Sister
Laois Woman's Documentary With Colin Farrell Premieres
Farmers Stage Tractor Protest At Bord Bia HQ
Flights Limited From Abu Dhabi As Ireland Monitors Middle East Tensions
Two New Special Classes Approved For Next Academic Year In Offaly
Local Enterprise Week Kicks Off Across Midlands
Midlands Library Hosting ‘The Forgotten Peterhead Men’ Lecture
Offaly Singer-Songwriter Surges Into Dancing With The Stars Semi-Finals
Midlands Pharma Facility To Receive €432m In Funding
Laois Roads Policing Unit Arrested Intoxicated Driver
Arrests And Drug Seizures In Offaly Operation
SNA Protest Held Outside Department Of Education In Athlone