Stormont leaders urge people to stay at home ahead of Mother's Day

by Q Radio News

Stormont's leaders have expressed concern that gatherings on Mother's Day could dampen efforts to reduce the spread of coronavirus in Northern Ireland. 

Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill has urged people to stay at home, no matter how tempting it may be to spend time with family tomorrow. 

It comes as over 600,000 vaccine doses have been administered in Northern Ireland.

Coronavirus restrictions are also expected to be reviewed this week, 16th March, when the executive meets. 

The current rules are to remain in place until 1st April. 

Mrs O'Neill said it is important to keep our families and mother's safe by continuing to follow the guidelines. 

"Can I just say we're making really good progress with the vaccination programme and there is certainly brighter days ahead." 

The Deputy First Minister added, "know this year has been so difficult and many people won't have seen their mummy as much as they would have liked. 

"But we're not out of the woods yet, so it is really important that everyone keeps themselves safe, their mummy's safe and everyone else safe. 

"So have a happy and safe mother's day."

Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill

First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill

Meanwhile, Stormont's First Minister has also sent a message of thanks to mum's in Northern Ireland ahead of Mother's Day. 

Arlene Foster has said that although many are tired and fed up the coronavirus rules, we can look towards brighter days thanks to the vaccine roll-out. 

"This has undoubtedly been a year like no other and across Northern Ireland, mothers have worked hard to keep their families safe, to support the schooling of young children, the return of students from university and college and to care for older relatives. 

"I know that many will be feeling more than a little tired so I want to send a message of hope. 

"With our new advances in the vaccines programme, treatments and testing services - we can look forward with confidence towards brighter days."

First Minister Arlene Foster