By Q Radio News
Another 15 people have died in Northern Ireland after contracting COVID-19.
It's the highest number of fatalities to occur here within a single day since the outbreak began and brings the death toll to 107.
The public health agency has confirmed that another 128 patients have tested positive for coronavirus here within 24 hours.
It brings the the total number of confirmed cases in the region to 1,717.
It comes after a row broke out within the Stormont Executive over the health minister's request for help from the British Army.
Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minister has accused Robin Swann of failing to consult with colleagues before making formal requests to the Ministry of Defence for assistance with distributing live-saving equipment and in planning a Nightingale hospital at the former Maze Prison site.
Michelle O'Neill insists her party will not rule out any measures necessary to save lives here.
However she says all options must be exhausted including the use of other blue light public services and civilian contractors before calling in troops.
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