| Good evening, Today's headlines sadly highlight the heart-breaking toll that Covid-19 is taking on families right across the Province. The Department of Health reported that 26 people had died - the highest number of Covid-related deaths in Northern Ireland in any 24-hour period. Of this total, 22 deaths occurred in the last 24 hours, with four taking place outside this timeframe but recorded for the first time. Another grim record was reported today as the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) weekly figures revealed the number of Covid deaths has now passed 2,000. Each of these 2,019 deaths is much more than just a statistic, of course, and we extend sympathies to all those who are experiencing the loss of a loved one. Health Minister Robin Swann said this afternoon that everyone "has the power" to bring the virus under control by following the health guidelines. The R-rate may be coming down, but this decrease needs to be sustained over the coming weeks, he warned. Enjoy your weekend safely. Valerie Martin, Head of Content. * If you want to enjoy accurate, fact-checked journalism that you can trust, why not sign up for a digital subscription? You can have unlimited access to the work of our top journalists, thought-provoking columnists and exclusive content from as little as £1 a month? Check out your subscription options here. We also have a special offer for you - 21% off all our monthly or annual subscription packages - when you use the code 21NEWYEAR between now and Sunday, January 17. | 
