Record number of coronavirus cases confirmed with four more deaths in Northern Ireland

By Q Radio News

There have been 1,217 new Covid-19 cases in Northern Ireland in the last 24-hour reporting period, the Department of Health has announced.

It is the largest daily rise in cases in the region since an extended testing regime was introduced.

There were also a further four deaths reported on Wednesday, taking the toll recorded by the Department of Health to 602.

It comes after a period of intensified coronavirus restrictions were agreed by the Stormont executive which includes the closure of schools, pubs and restaurants.

Hospitality venues will close for four weeks, with the exception of takeaways and deliveries, while schools will close on Monday for two weeks, one of which will cover the half-term break.

The measures do not amount to a full-scale lockdown similar to that imposed during the first wave of the virus, but they mark a significant ramping up of the administration’s response to spiralling infection rates.

Retail outlets will remain open, as will gyms for individual training.

Churches will also remain open. It is understood a 25-person limit will be placed on funerals and weddings, but wedding receptions are prohibited.

People should work from home unless unable to do so, and are urged not to take unnecessary journeys.

Indoor sporting activities are not allowed and outdoor contact sports will be limited to elite athletes.

Off licences will be required to shut at 8pm.

Close contact services, such as hairdressers and beauticians, must stop.

Services that deliver health interventions and therapeutics will be allowed to continue.

Childcare facilities and creches will remain open.

The measures come into force at 6pm on Friday.