LISTEN: Hospital visits suspended across Northern Ireland

by Q Radio News

Visits to general medical wards in hospitals in Northern Ireland are no longer permitted from today.

The move has been taken due to the continued prevalence of Covid-19 in communities here.

All health trusts will follow the guidance issued by the Department of Health.

Hospital visits are divided into five alert levels, with Level 5 coming into effect at midnight on Thursday (14 January).

However, there will be exemptions to the restrictions including end of life visits.

Health Minister Robin Swann outlined some of the exemptions.

On Wednesday, the Western Trust issued a statement and recognised that it's "a very difficult time" for the public.

"While we recognise that restriction to visiting is a very emotive and difficult issue, often causing distress for families, patients and residents, it is essential that these updated visiting restrictions are effectively applied to help bring the transmission of COVID-19 under control.

"There will again be certain exceptional circumstances.

"If you are permitted to visit Hospital or a Care Facility under any of the special circumstances above you MUST wear a face covering, thoroughly wash your hands or use sanitiser when entering and exiting that facility.

"PLEASE DO NOT visit if you are feeling unwell, especially if you have a high temperature or new persistent cough or have a sudden loss of taste or smell.

"Children are not permitted to visit.

"The Trust acknowledges that this is a very difficult time for the public and we ask you to work with us and appeal to patients and visitors to respect our staff and the guidance they give you at all times. The Trust operates a ‘Zero Tolerance’ policy and we will not accept any form of abuse towards our staff."

The Belfast Trust also asked the public not to arrange visits with patients outside of wards, including in canteens and food areas.

Updated visiting guidelines come into effect tomorrow, directed by the Department of Health.

For more information on the revised guidelines, please go to: https://t.co/gKlVT9Cunl pic.twitter.com/tZjB50xOdI

— Belfast Trust (@BelfastTrust) January 14, 2021

Meanwhile, First Minister Arlene Foster says progress is being made in the fight against Covid-19 in Northern Ireland. 

However, Ms Foster expressed disbelief during the Covid-19 press conference in Dungannon on Thursday that some people are still having house parties. 

She assured those who are keeping to the rules that there's no doubt they are helping save lives 

Further information on the latest hospital visit restrictions:

Source: Western Trust