Executive to meet to discuss Christmas restrictions

by Q Radio News

The Executive is expected to meet later to consider the arrangements for celebrating Christmas in Northern Ireland in more detail. 

Earlier this week, the government announced three households in Northern Ireland will be allowed to meet indoors for five days over the festive period. 

The decision will apply to all four devolved nations in the UK - from the 23 to the 27 of December. 

Ministers are also expected to discuss a mass Covid-19 vaccination programme for Northern Ireland. 

Health Minister Robin Swann is to bring a a presentation to the executive when it meets later - about what a mass vaccination programme would look like for Northern Ireland. 

Health Minister @RobinSwannMoH says this is a time to unite.

"Our actions will have a huge bearing on what Christmas we have."

"There is a massive responsibility on all our hospitals." pic.twitter.com/BdkJAf798W

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) November 25, 2020

On Wednesday, he said intensive preparations were underway for the scheme - with hundreds already volunteering to become vaccinators. 

Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride said much of the 'heavy lifting' will be done by a vaccine when it becomes available and recognised the impact current restrictions are having on the hospitality sector:

Ministers are also expected to discuss further - the roll out of a multi-million pounds support package for businesses - announced by the Finance Minister earlier this week.

It comes after Conor Murphy criticised Chancellor Rishi Sunak's announcement to freeze pay in the public sector. 

Mr Murphy said the decision was 'disappointing' and would not support the health service or the most vulnerable in society.