It was similar for hospitality, with businesses allowed to reopen outdoors. There were long lines of mostly young people queuing outside hospitality venues across Belfast on Friday afternoon.
The outgoing first minister also confirmed that she had not spoken to those in her party who signed the letter calling for a leadership election in the DUP.
Of course we know now that Edwin Poots, agriculture minister, was the first person to declare for the leadership.
I hope you enjoy the May Bank Holiday weekend, with doors of retail and hospitality open once again.
Alistair Bushe
Editor
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There could be an influx of "safeguarding issues" from care homes in Northern Ireland once family visits get back to normal, the head of a support group has said.
Every adult in Northern Ireland will be able to apply for a £100 voucher to spend on the high street it has been announced as society takes its next steps out of lockdown.
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Despite facing efforts by some senior DUP figures to prevent him replacing Arlene Foster as leader, momentum last night was with Edwin Poots as he became the first candidate to step forward.
The wife of a DUP MP has hit back at those within the party said to have questioned some of her recent comments urging a ban on gay conversion therapy.
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Ulster flanker Jordi Murphy says the absence of crowds has negated any home advantage this season as Dan McFarland's side prepare to face Leicester Tigers at Welford Road on Friday night.
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