By Q Radio News
Community pharmacists in Northern Ireland will be able to receive the Covid-19 vaccine from today.
The region is currently in phase one of its vaccination programme which involves ensuring priority groups are protected against the virus.
Care home residents, older people over the age of 80 and health and social care workers are among those included.
Meanwhile, Gerard Greene the Chief Executive of Community Pharmacy NI says it's welcome news that those in chemists will now also be protected.
It comes after the health minister claimed it is “highly unlikely” that coronavirus restrictions in Northern Ireland will be eased after the six-week lockdown ends.
Robin Swann said although the R number has dropped to 0.7, the number of cases and hospital inpatients with the virus remains high.
The Stormont Executive agreed the tough range of measures in December to start from Boxing Day until February 6.
Mr Swann said with daily case and hospital numbers remaining high, the restrictions are likely to be required for longer.
King and Queen meet creatives during visit to heart of Belfast
Man, 18, remanded in custody charged with attempted murder in Belfast
Three men jailed for 20 years for murder of Ian Ogle
Northern Ireland’s First Minister expresses concern over benefits shake-up