Teen disco at the Elk linked to 170 positive Covid cases and 800 close contacts

By Q Radio News

The Public Health Agency says over 170 positive cases of Coronavirus have been linked to a teen disco in Co. Antrim.

Officials say 800 people have been identified as close contacts of the infected teens, from the event at The Elk in Toomebridge.

In a statement The Public Health Agency told Q Radio News:

“This issue is a reminder of the need for continued vigilance and adherence to the public health guidance and regulations for COVID-19.

“Just because restrictions allow for large-scale events and social gatherings, it does not mean that they carry no risk of COVID-19 infection, and we have seen cases amongst younger people rising generally.

“We ask that the public remain alert and continue to exercise caution.”

The Public Health Agency says over 170 positive cases of Coronavirus have been linked to a teen disco in Co. Antrimhttps://t.co/TN66YfbVbO

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) November 17, 2021

The Mid Ulster District Council gave Q Radio News this statement:

“An investigation into the incident is ongoing and the Council has already issued a prohibition notice under the relevant Health and Safety legislation which prevents events for teenagers being held at the premises’ nightclub, pending a review of safety measures.

“The Council also holds powers as the licensing authority and the premises’ Entertainment Licence was considered at a meeting of the Environment Committee yesterday evening (16 November 2021).

“The Committee agreed to suspend the entertainment licence until such times as the terms of the prohibition notice are complied with.

“Those terms require the licensee to provide a revised event management plan which adequately addresses the issues which arose at the event held on 5 November 2021.”

The venue has been contacted for comment.