Parts of Co Armagh are set to be locked down after a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases, Health Minister Robin Swann has confirmed.
The Health Minister, in an ‘urgent written statement’ to the Assembly, said the BT60 area ‘is now significantly above the previously agreed threshold of 80 positive cases per 100,000 for imposing localised restrictions.’
Mr Swann said restrictions will take effect from 5pm on Friday.
People living in this area will not be allowed to visit other people inside their homes or have visitors, with a few exceptions.
Robin Swann made the announcement following Thursday’s NI Executive meeting.
BT60 covers parts of Co Armagh – Armagh city, Keady and Markethill, Whitecross, near Newry, Tassagh and Darkley.
As well as the restrictions on indoor visits, no more than six people from two households will be allowed to gather in a private garden.
Restrictions already apply to the greater Belfast area, Ballymena, BT29, BT28 and BT43.
The news comes after the NI Executive announced that drinks-only establishments can re-open from Wednesday.