Northern Ireland to remain under lockdown

By Q Radio News and PA reporter

Coronavirus lockdown measures will remain in place in Northern Ireland for a further three weeks, the First Minister has confirmed.

Arlene Foster said the Executive had decided not to make any alterations to the social distancing regulations.

"We still believe that they are needed and are proportionate to deal with the threat of the spread of the virus," she said.

However, next week the Stormont Executive will consider "minor" adjustments to the restrictions.

First Minister @DUPleader opens press conference saying NI's roadmap to recovery "remains a work in progress". It won't be published today bur work will continue over the next few days. pic.twitter.com/3zFjmZUAPO

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) May 7, 2020

Ministers had calls with Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis and Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday and will take part in a Cobra meeting on Sunday.

Arlene Foster also announced the use of face-covering in enclosed spaces where social distancing was not possible had been considered.

She said specialist scientific advice from Sage had concluded "on balance" to recommend the use of the coverings in those circumstances.

Deputy First Minister @moneillsf says they reviewed all lockdown restrictions keeping scientific advice in mind - and says "we're not in a position" to relax restrictions yet but will review it again in 3 weeks. pic.twitter.com/Ph0DSps2tX

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) May 7, 2020

It comes after a further four more people died in Northern Ireland as a result of coronavirus, bringing the total to 422. 

According to the Department of Health's dashboard, two of those deaths occurred in the last 24 hours, while the two others happened prior to that but are only being reported now. 

It also highlights that to date, 3,984 positive COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in the region.