Executive to discuss stricter lockdown measures

Jan 4, 2021

Good evening,

"Deeply troubling" - that's how Dr Michael McBride, Northern Ireland's Chief Medical Officer this afternoon described the massive rise in coronavirus infections across the Province.

With 1,801 new cases recorded in the last 24 hours, following on the current trend of rising figures, there is no doubt that we are facing a very difficult time ahead. Another 12 Covid-related deaths have also sadly been recorded today.

Dr McBride urged everyone to play their part in helping to reduce the infection rate and warned "now is not the time to find a workaround of restrictions".

The NI Executive is meeting this evening to discuss further possible coronavirus restrictions for Northern Ireland. Scotland has introduced strict new restrictions from midnight, including 'stay at home' rules and Prime Minister Boris Johnston is likely to announce more restrictions for England tonight in a televised address.

Meanwhile, GP practices in Northern Ireland began to roll-out the Oxford / AstraZeneca vaccine today. Eileen Lynch (94) was one of the first people to receive the jab here.

Stay safe.

Valerie Martin,

Head of Content.

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