616 new cases of COVID-19 diagnosed in NI

By Q Radio News

There have been 616 new cases of Covid-19 in Northern Ireland confirmed in the last 24 hours, according to the Department of Health.

Some 3,630 cases have been reported in the last seven days, bringing the overall total number of cases confirmed in the region to 14,690.

No further deaths have been reported by the department, leaving the toll at 584.

The figures come as the GAA have suspended club games at all levels following a number of incidents that breached Covid-19 guidelines.

The organisation’s management committee said the decision was taken in “the interest of public safety”, will have immediate effect and remain in place until further notice.

They cited a number of recent incidents, adding: “​In particular, post-match celebrations and a lack of social distancing at certain events have proved disappointing and problematic. ”

Club social centres and bars are also set to close and the directive will apply to all ages and grades in clubs across the island.

It comes as the Irish Government has been advised to enforce a second lockdown following a recommendation from health experts.