Executive to meet to discuss post-circuit breaker plans

by Q Radio News

The Executive is due to meet later on Thursday to discuss what restrictions, if any, will be in place when the current two-week circuit breaker ends next week.

Non-essential retail and close contact services have been closed since 27 November in a bid to curb the spread of Covid-19 in Northern Ireland.

Hospitality businesses, such as cafes, have only been able to offer takeaway services.

Current restrictions end at one minute to midnight next Thursday.

On Wednesday, the Deputy First Minister said she intends for there to be a decision today on what regulations could be eased after the 11th December.

Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill MLA

It will be the first time Ministers have met since the Pfizer BionTech vaccine was given regulatory approval in the UK.

Yesterday, First Minister Arlene Foster says while this was promising news, people must follow public health advice until the vaccine is rolled out:

The DfM also said that she wants the vaccine roll-out to closely align with a Covid-19 vaccination programme in the the Republic of Ireland.

However no injection has been approved yet in Ireland. 

Michelle O'Neill said the issue should be discussed as coronavirus does not respect  borders. 

Health Minister Robin Swann has already confirmed that healthcare workers from the Republic who work here - will be innoculated. 

End of restrictions?

So far, there are no firm plans in place for when the current two week circuit breaker comes to an end.

MIchelle O'Neill says she's wants to communicate to the people well in advance of the restrictions ending.

Executive ministers are also expecting to receive a paper from the Chief Medical Officer, outlining further plans for the festive period.

A five-day relaxation in restrictions, allowing three households to come together, has already been announced from 23-27 December for the whole of the UK.

However, the First Minister said Christmas plans still need looked at for the clinically vulnerable, and care home residents making visits outside of their care setting.