Write a commentThe Stormont Executive are moving forward on relaxing outdoor restrictions (not including domestic settings) and from tomorrow maximum numbers allowed outdoors will be subject to a risk assessment carried out by the venue. Live music will also return after a lengthy absence.
The Executive received an update today on the progression of the Covid-19 epidemic and, in particular the continued advancement of the Delta variant which now accounts for 75% of the cases here.
This increase in the Delta variant and the case numbers associated with it are causing concern and the Executive will continue to monitor the situation closely with a particular focus on the hospitalisations resulting from the increase in cases and the potential pressure on the health service.
The Executive has decided that from 2 July, the cap on outdoor gatherings will be removed and the maximum number permitted will be determined by the risk assessment carried out for the venue.
From 5 July all gatherings, indoors and outdoors (not including domestic settings) will now only be subject to a risk assessment if they have more than 15 participants for indoors, or more than 30 participants for outdoors.
Live music will be permitted at licensed and unlicensed hospitality businesses that sell or provide food and/or drink for consumption on the premises. This will be at ambient level only to allow conversation at normal levels and with suitable mitigations in place, such as screens.
Music will be permitted at outdoor events with no restriction on volume.
The number of households permitted to meet outdoors at private dwellings will be increased from three to five, with the maximum number of people remaining at 15, including children.
The Executive has also approved a restart of overnight residential stays for children and young people across all sectors.
They are asking that everyone comes forward to receive their vaccine as soon as possible and keep both their appointments.
