Decision to add countries to quarantine list, 'not taken lightly' - Health Minister

By Q Radio News

Health Minister Robin Swann says the decision remove countries including France and the Netherlands from the quarantine exempt list was 'not taken lightly'.

Cases in both countries have risen significantly with Monaco, Turks and Caicos, Malta and Aruba also removed.

Travelers from each of these countries, arriving in Northern Ireland, will now have to self-isolate for 14 days. The new regulations will take effect from 4am on Saturday (15 August).

Speaking about the decision to follow the UK government's decision, Robin Swann said: “The decision to remove these countries from the exempt list was not taken lightly.  The countries have seen significant rises in new positive cases and my priority must be the safety of the people of Northern Ireland.

“As of 4am on Saturday, anyone returning or visiting Northern Ireland from these countries will be required to quarantine for 14 days. 

“This will undoubtedly cause upset and inconvenience, however I must put the people of Northern Ireland first and foremost.  I will continue to monitor the situation in all countries and will move swiftly and without hesitation to make the changes to the regulations when necessary.

Quarantine update

Anyone travelling from France, Monaco, Netherlands, Turks and Caicos, Aruba and Malta into the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland, will now be required to quarantine for 14 days.

➡️https://t.co/A89qR6XBlT pic.twitter.com/fPDvurFLCE

— Department of Health (@healthdpt) August 13, 2020

“As the situation around the world continues to change quickly, anyone considering a trip abroad should review the travel advice on NIDirect and FCO website before travelling.  Countries on the exempt list one day could be removed the next and a quarantine period introduced.  Ask yourself, is this travel necessary and is it worth it.”

Travelers from Belgium, Andorra, the Bahamas, Luxembourg and Spain are already required to quarantine.