Health Minister "does have the power to lift Covid restrictions" - Donaldson

By Q Radio News

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson says he believes the Health Minister has the "legal authority" to lift Covid restrictions under the UK Coronavirus Act, despite the concerns raised in the last 24 hours.

It comes after Robin Swann said he is "deeply concerned" about the consequences of the recent resignation of Paul Givan as First Minister.

He said the move will damage efforts to address hospital waiting lists and raises questions about the removal of Covid restrictions.

Health Minister "does have the power to lift Covid restrictions" - Donaldson.https://t.co/IEeqgEvuAt

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In a series of tweets yesterday, he said:

“I have sought urgent legal clarification regarding the decisions on Covid restrictions I had really hoped could have been made by the Executive next week.

“My priority is and will remain supporting our health and social care system, but patients & staff deserve better than this.

“My intention has been to see a significant removal of Covid restrictions, replaced by guidance, at the earliest opportunity.

“I believe that time is very close. I will have more to say on this in the coming days, guided by legal advice & the latest public health assessments.”

However, a source close to Mr Swann questioned the contention that he can use emergency powers to lift them unilaterally, stating that the position requires legal scrutiny.

Sir Jeffrey also said the three-year Executive budget, which Mr Swann described as "crucial" for the health service, will go forward despite concerns, and that it will be based on the current level of spending, with the normal increase that is set by the Treasury.

"There is a provision in law for the departments to receive their budget," he said.

Health Minister Robin Swann