Alex Kane: It’s no fun, but cau tion is still the right approach

Dear reader
The debate over the wearing of masks in our shops was given fresh impetus on Monday, with the Health Minister Robin Swann declaring that it could become mandatory in Northern Ireland earlier than first thought.
In a letter to the NIE revealed by the BBC, Mr Swann hints that the wearing of masks might become mandatory as early as the end of next week. The issue continues to polarise opinion with East Antrim DUP MP Sammy Wilson and some retailers warning that such a move would put off potential shoppers.
Mr Swann’s fresh push on mandatory masks comes after Northern Ireland experienced its most significant rise in new Covid-19 cases in some time. The Department of Health revealed on Monday that 40 new cases had been confirmed over the weekend.
The news comes as the Republic of Ireland continues to experience a recent spike, with almost 100 new cases of Covid-19 recorded over the weekend alone.
Another mobile testing centre for Covid-19 has opened in Carrickfergus. The centre opened in the grounds of Carrickfergus Rugby Club. It is intended for the centre to be operational for a week.
Stay safe
Alistair Bushe
Editor

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