New restrictions for pubs and restaurants in Strabane

PUBS and restaurants in the Derry and Strabane council area are to be placed under new restrictions to help prevent the spread of Covid19.

Pubs, cafes, restaurants and hotels in the council area will only be allowed to open for takeaway, delivery and outdoor dining.

The executive agreed to impose the strict measures at its meeting today (Thursday) and the restrictions will come into force from next week.

Residents in the council area are “strongly advised” to work from home where they can.

People are also being advised to avoid “unnecessary travel” within the council area and to and from it.

Where journeys are necessary, advice is to walk, cycle or use private transport.

Schools and other educational settings will stay open.

Under the new rules, all museums, galleries and cultural attractions in the council area are to remain closed, while hotels will only be allowed to provide service to overnight guests.

Earlier today, the Department of Health confirmed that 259 people have tested positive for Covid19 in the past 24 hours – 52 to those cases in Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

A total of 1,082 people in the council area have now tested positive – 486 in the past seven days. 

The rate of positives cases in the council area is 322.6 per 100,000 people – more than double the rate in any of the other ten council areas in the North

SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan says the restrictions brought in from the Executive for the Derry City and Strabane Council areas are necessary and says the public have to listen if we are the curb the spread of Covid 19 locally.

Mr McCrossan commented, “These additional restrictions are necessary given the spread of Covid19 locally and the huge increases in infection rates in the past few weeks.

“The Executive have now acted to ensure the spread of the virus is limited and to ensure the vulnerable in our community are protected.

“Some of these measures will have a financial impact on businesses And it is important these businesses are protected. I welcome the fact the Executive is looking at a financial support package for them.

“I would encourage everyone to adhere to these guidelines and to ensure that they are doing their part in curbing the spread.

“The basic messages around washing your hands, social distancing and Wearing of face coverings are as important as ever.

“People need to follow these very serious restrictions and play their part in flattening the curve. Only with community cooperation will these measures be successful.

“The next two weeks are significant for everyone locally.

“These decisions were not taken lightly,” concluded Mr McCrossan.