Crucial new measures will save lives

Date published: 23 March 2020

First Minister Arlene Foster and deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill have said the introduction of new social distancing measures are crucial in the fight back against Covid-19.

The new measures mean people must stay at home except shopping for necessities; medical need; exercising alone or with members of your household; and travelling to and from work.

Shops and businesses providing non-essential goods and services also must close. People who can work from home must do so. Those who cannot work from home can go to workplaces where social distancing and government advice is being followed

First Minister Arlene Foster said: “These new rules on social distancing may seem extreme but they are absolutely crucial in slowing the spread of this virus. We have said many times that people must adhere to the social distancing guidelines, but it is clear that this action needed to be taken to ensure that we protect those must vulnerable from Covid-19.

“New emergency powers will allow us to enforce these measures but every individual has a personal responsibility to take action now. The message could not be clearer – this is quite literally a matter of life and death. Stay at home.”

Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “The scale of this approach reflects the gravity of the situation we are faced with. These are very stringent measures aimed at preserving our health service, protecting our health workers and ultimately saving lives. We are pleading with the public - please be part of the fight back against Covid-19. Please stay at home.

“These next few months are going to be very difficult. Every single person will be deeply affected by this disease and every single person has a part to play in getting through this. Now is the time to do the right thing.”