A Stormont decision to lift coronavirus rules despite mounting pressures on the health service has been branded "complete madness" by medics.
Dr Tom Black, chair of BMA's Northern Ireland council, said the relaxations planned for the end of the month would ultimately lead to more Covid-19 deaths.
He criticised the move as "stupidity" as he warned the health system in the region was facing its "worst crisis ever" this winter as it dealt with the "triple whammy" of Covid, winter pressures and spiralling waiting lists.
On 31 October, nightclubs are due to reopen in Northern Ireland and social distancing rules that currently limit capacity in bars and restaurants will move from regulation to guidance.