By David Young, PA
More than 4,000 people responded to a recruitment drive to boost healthcare numbers in Northern Ireland within 24 hours of it going live.
The 4,031 who registered an interest included 931 clinical staff.
Health Minister Robin Swann said: "This is a really encouraging and positive response and I know the numbers will grow further.
"I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has registered their interest and also express my gratitude to those involved in this campaign. It will make a huge difference.
"It is truly heartening to see so many people across Northern Ireland backing the fightback against Covid-19 in so many different ways."
The HSC Workforce Appeal is in addition to other initiatives to enhance the workforce, including the deployment of final-year nursing, midwifery, medical and social work students ahead of schedule.
Plans are also being extended to invite second-year nursing, midwifery, physio, radiography and occupational therapy students to also help support care delivery.
The workforce appeal is also keen to attract non-clinical workers to fill a range of paid vacancies, including porters, catering staff, cleaning and domestic services staff, laundry staff, ICT professionals, finance and payroll, call handlers, drivers, electricians, plumbers, joiners, warehousing and maintenance staff.
"Our message to people across all the staff groups is simple and urgent - Northern Ireland needs you." Mr Swann added.
For more information, visit www.hscworkforceappeal.co.uk
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