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Holiday bubbles should be as small as possible, and Northern Irish people should consider forming them by December 25 only in the midst of a “new aggressive strain” of Covid-19.
Prime Minister Arlene Foster, Deputy Prime Minister Michelle O’Neill and Health Minister Robin Swann met with Medical Director Michael McBride and Chief Scientific Advisor Professor Ian Young on Saturday as rules were tightened in other parts of the UK.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson canceled Christmas for millions of people in London and south-east England after scientists said a new variant of the coronavirus is spreading faster.
Ms. O’Neill said: “Bubbly Christmas arrangements are in place for those who feel they need to join in.
“If you must use them, consider doing it for just one day, on Christmas Day.
“Keep your bubble as small as possible and gather for as little time as possible.
“We are clearly very concerned about the unfolding Covid-19 situation. The rate at which this variant strain of the virus is spreading is very concerning.”
On Saturday, the Northern Ireland Department of Health confirmed that another 17 people with Covid-19 had died within a 24-hour period, bringing the death toll to 1,183.
Another 640 new cases of the virus were also reported in the region.
There were 427 patients with Covid-19 in hospitals, 30 of them in ICU.
Ms Foster said: “The progression of a new variant strain of Covid-19 in England is concerning, and reminds all of us to be on guard against the dangers of the virus.
“The Executive has already taken important measures earlier this week before other regions. It is up to all of us to do what we can to minimize the risks of the spread of the coronavirus. We ask everyone to think carefully about all their actions and follow the public.” . rigorous health counseling. “
The Northern Ireland Executive decided last week to impose a six-week lockdown from December 26.
But under current plans, up to three households will be allowed to meet in “social bubbles” between 23 and 27 December, unlike the rest of the UK.
The first week of the measures will see the toughest lockdown yet in Northern Ireland, with a form of curfew in place from 8pm, shops closed thereafter, and all indoor and outdoor gatherings banned. until 6 am
Both Naomi Long and Colum Eastwood have called for an urgent Executive meeting to discuss the growing number of Covid-19 cases.
The leader of the Alianza party said that “people urgently need answers.”
She tweeted on Sunday: “Given all the changes occurring today in these islands regarding Covid restrictions and with Christmas just a few days away, Executive should meet tomorrow to bring clarity to families, particularly those planning to travel to train. bubbles”.
SDLP leader Mr. Eastwood also said that the public needs clarity, tweeting: “The SDLP is calling an urgent Executive meeting following reports of the dire Covid situation in these islands. Decisive action is needed quickly. .
“If we have to act to stop the spread of this deadly virus, then we have to act now.”
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