20 More Covid-Related Deaths in Northern Ireland



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The Northern Ireland Department of Health has reported another 20 coronavirus-related deaths in the past 48 hours.

In the same period, 1,634 people tested positive for Covid-19.

It comes as the Northern Ireland health minister urged the public to strictly adhere to the new lockdown measures.

Robin Swann asked everyone to “play their part” for the next six weeks, which he described as a “crucial period” in the pandemic.

Northern Ireland companies closed once again when the new measures went into effect on December 26.

There are additional restrictions in effect through January 2, including a form of curfew in operation beginning at 8 p.m., with stores closed after that time, and all indoor and outdoor gatherings prohibited until 6 a.m.

The sweeping measures also involve shutting down nonessential and close-contact retail services, such as hair salons, for the next six weeks.

Hotel establishments are limited to take away food services.


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Swann said: “We need another great collective effort across society to reduce Covid infection rates.”

“We do that by reducing our contact with others, staying indoors, keeping our distance from others if we need to be outdoors for good reason, and covering our faces and washing our hands.

“This will save lives and ease pressure on our healthcare service at this challenging time.

“I know how difficult 2020 has been and how fed up we are all with this virus. But I am confident that we can all unite once again at this critical time.”

He said the new year has “renewed hope with the launch of the vaccine,” but added: “We need a concerted and united effort in the coming months to get us to a better place.”

“Please stay home as long as possible. Please don’t be tempted to visit your friends this week. It’s not just about complying with regulations, it’s about keeping yourself and others safe.

“A New Year’s Eve house party would not only be illegal. It could be a high-profile event, it could make people very seriously ill and it could even cost lives.”

The Northern Ireland Executive is underlining the “stay home” message this week with TV and radio spots.



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