Potential six week lockdown proposals being considered by Executive

Twelve people die and 656 diagnosed with infection

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Subscribe              Dec 17, 2020           Dear reader The Stormont Executive is understood to be on the brink of announcing a new six-week lockdown for Northern Ireland.  The restrictions, which are expected to include the closure of non-essential retail and hospitality, are likely to take effect from Boxing Day. It comes on the back of previous restrictions having failed to bring down the R number in Northern Ireland.   It's been mooted that even essential shops in the Province could close by 8pm every night during the first week of lockdown while the police will be expected to maintain a more visible role to ensure the rules are obeyed. Schools may yet take a longer Christmas holiday.  An announcement on the lockdown is expected some time this evening. It is thought the restrictions could be reviewed after an initial four-week period.  The imminent announcement will come after yet another steep rise in daily coronavirus figures. Another 656 people have received a positive Covid-19 diagnosis in the last 24 hours in Northern Ireland. Twelve deaths have been reported by the Department of Health.  Northern Ireland's health leaders have faced renewed criticism of their approach to the pandemic. During this morning's proceedings at the Stormont Health Committee, Sinn Fein's Pat Sheehan accused the chief medical officer and chief scientific advisor of failing to develop a "strategic vision" in tackling Covid-19.  Alistair Bushe Editor Thanks for your support for our journalism this year. If you haven't already, then please consider taking out a digital subscription with us from just £1 a month. And we are offering 20% off if you get someone a subscription as a gift this Christmas. Just use the code CHRISTGIFT20 - find out more here.           Sweeping six week lockdown proposed for Northern Ireland           A sweeping coronavirus lockdown has been proposed for Northern Ireland as the region struggles to suppress the virus.                 Coronavirus NI: Twelve people die and 656 diagnosed with infection - 460 in hospital with COVID-19 and 32 in ICU - hospitals at 104% occupancy   Twelve deaths have been today reported today by the Department of Health of people with Coronavirus.           Sinn Fein MLA launches scathing attack on CMO and CSA over Covid-19 planning   A Sinn Fein MLA has accused Chief Medical Officer (CSO) Dr. Michael McBride and Chief Scientific Advisor (CSA) Professor Ian Young of having failed to provide Northern Ireland with a "strategic vision" for how to battle Covid-19.           Prof opposes Covid vaccine passports but Department of Health is 'not aware of plans'   A Belfast Professor says he is against proposals to give special 'passports' to those who can prove they are Covid-19 free in order to guarantee them greater civic freedoms.           Health Minister Robin Swann does not rule out calling for lockdown intervention before Christmas   Health Minister, Robin Swann, declined an opportunity to confirm or deny a suggestion he will recommend a lockdown intervention to the Northern Ireland Executive when it meets in Stormont on Thursday.           Top NI comedian Paddy Raff reveals devastation at cancellation of Belfast shows   Top NI comedian Paddy Raff has told his devastation for fans that his two europs shows have had to be cancelled.                 View more news

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