By Q Radio news
The number of NHS cancer surgeries being carried out at private hospitals in Northern Ireland has soared by over 600% during the coronavirus pandemic.
The health minister revealed the figures after it emerged that more than 4,000 "red flag" procedures have been cancelled since the outbreak began.
Robin Swann insists that most elective surgeries are going ahead as normal.
He says he plans to rely even further on the private sector to combat growing waiting lists.
Mr Swann also says Covid-19 infection rates in Northern Ireland are continuing to fall - but they are still "too high",
Woman dies in Cookstown road crash
Extra £400m to support health and education in Northern Ireland
Collaborative approach must remain in removing illegal flags – police federation
Ireland rugby star Jack Kyle to be commemorated with blue plaque
Police investigating South Belfast arson attack