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Tonight the ministers issued a statement on Christmas plans in Northern Ireland.
An aggressive new strain of Covid-19 reinforces the need for everyone to be vigilant and follow public health advice, ministers have said.
In a statement issued late Saturday night, the Executive Office said: “The Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Health met today with the Medical Director and the Chief Scientific Advisor to discuss the unfolding situation. quickly following the news that tighter restrictions for England, Scotland and Wales will be in place over Christmas.
“Everyone is urged to give serious thought to their plans for Christmas and now to consider limiting their gathering to Christmas Day only, to keep their bubble small and meet for the shortest amount of time possible, to ensure risks are minimized.”
Prime Minister Arlene Foster said: “We know that people will be concerned about news coming in from other parts of the UK today. We have had a detailed discussion on the situation in Northern Ireland. The progression of a new variant strain of Covid-19 in England is concerning and reminds us all to be on our guard against the dangers of the virus.
“The Executive has already taken significant measures earlier this week before other regions. It is up to all of us to do what we can to minimize the risks of spreading the coronavirus. We ask everyone to think carefully about all their actions and rigorously follow the public health advice.
“We urge everyone to carefully consider their plans so that they are as safe as possible, especially for those who are most vulnerable.”
(Image: Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye)
Deputy Prime Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “We are clearly very concerned about the Covid-19 situation that is unfolding. The speed at which this variant strain of the virus is spreading is of great concern.
“We have already made difficult, but necessary decisions here to introduce severe restrictions as of December 26. This critical intervention was carried out to protect the health service and save lives. We will continue to closely examine the current situation and continue to be guided by the advice of our scientific and medical experts.
“The bubbly Christmas arrangements are in place for those who feel they need to join. 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 the shortest time possible. Follow public health advice and take whatever steps you can to keep yourself, your loved ones, and everyone around you safe. “
Health Minister Robin Swann said: “The variant of the Covid-19 strain spreading in parts of England is of great concern. It is a rapidly evolving situation and we are in contact with colleagues in the UK as it progresses.
“This should serve as a reminder for all of us to be very careful and do everything we can to keep ourselves and our families safe and protect the health service.
“If you’ve made plans for Christmas, check them out to keep those you care about safe. Those who are vulnerable remain vulnerable. If you are meeting with family or friends, keep it as small, short and local as possible. “
Ministers and their officials continue to work closely and collaboratively on these issues, meeting over the weekend as needed, the Executive Office added.
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