More than 900 new coronavirus cases confirmed as one more person dies

By Q Radio News

There have been 923 new cases of coronavirus in Northern Ireland confirmed in the last 24 hours, according to the Department of Health.

Some 4,674 cases have been reported in the last seven days, bringing the overall total number of cases confirmed in the region to 17,110.

One further death has been reported by the department, bringing the toll to 587.

It follows a second appeal for health care staff to come forward to boost the number of workers in the battle against the virus.

The first appeal in March saw thousands of applications and resulted in 1,702 doctors, nurses and other ancillary staff joining the work force for the first surge of Covid-19.

As the region battles a second surge of cases of the virus, Stormont Health Minister Robin Swann said they want to build capacity again.

“This was a phenomenal response at such a challenging time and I thank each and every one of those applicants for stepping up at that time,” he said.

“We have now reopened the workforce appeal to build capacity again with particular focus on certain roles and positions.

“I would urge anyone with the relevant skills and experience to consider applying to join or return to the health service.

“We are in an evolving situation that may require further recruitment drives going forward and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.”