Schools to close as new restrictions to be introduced

INCREASED restrictions are expected to be announced this morning in response to rising Covid-19 infection rates.

The strict measures are due to be confirmed during a sitting of the Stormont Assembly this morning (Wednesday) after talks ran into the early hours of the morning as ministers tried to reach a compromise on a range of regulations. 

It is understood the executive has agreed schools will close for two weeks, including the Halloween half-term holiday, until Monday November 2, when their closure will be reviewed.

It is expected that pubs and restaurants will close for four weeks, with the exception of takeaways while other fast-food and takeaway premises will close at 11pm.

No indoor sport or organised contact sport involving mixing of households, other than at elite level will be allowed while gyms will remain open for individual training but no classes will be permitted.

Mobile hairdressers and make-up artists – also classed as close contact services – prohibited from working in homes, while places of worship will remain open but face coverings mandatory when entering and exiting.

The current restrictions on household mixing are expected to remain as they are.