People Urged To Continue To Make 'Safe Choices' Around Covid Protection

As Coronavirus restrictions ease further people are being urged to keep following public health guidance and making safer choices to protect themselves and others.

A series of relaxations will begin to roll out from today, October 14, with further easements taking effect from October 31. This will cover meeting up with friends and family indoors at home, as well as relaxations in hospitality and entertainment settings.

First Minister Paul Givan said: "Over the next fortnight many of the last restrictions on how we socialise and engage together will be lifted.

"This is an important point to reach, and it has taken a determined and combined effort across society to get us here. I'm proud of the powerful, positive community spirit and the shared determination to keep everyone as safe as possible.

"While it is right that we take heart from the relaxations now allowed, we must also keep doing our bit to protect and drive on progress. This is about personal responsibility and whether you are a customer, worker, student or business owner, keep following the remaining rules when you are out and about."

Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill added: "With the support of the public, we have come a long way in our journey out of restrictions and we can all be encouraged by the cautious progress we have been able to make.

"However, we need to remember that Coronavirus still poses a threat to lives, livelihoods and our health service, which is facing in to a very challenging autumn and winter period.

"We have a collective responsibility to keep making the kind of choices that will keep our community as safe as possible.

"I encourage everyone to do what you can to protect yourself and others; open windows and doors; wear a face covering. And the evidence speaks for itself - the single most important thing you can do is to get the vaccine if you have not already done so."