The Covid-19 lockdown will be extended for one week in Northern Ireland, it is understood. Some areas of the locked down hospitality sectors will partly reopen next Friday, PA Media reported.
The Democratic Unionists and ministers from smaller parties backed the proposal made by Economy Minister Diane Dodds. Sinn Fein voted against and the nationalist SDLP abstained after days of wrangling which have left businesses in limbo.
DUP First Minister Arlene Foster confirmed the move in a video shot on her phone from the back of a car. She said: “Sometimes compromise doesn’t come easy and it has to be fought for to secure it.” PA understands the partial reopening of the hospitality sector next Friday will include: Close contact services, including