NI Lockdown: What can, and cannot stay open from November 27th?

Northern Ireland is being plunged back into lockdown from November 27th until December 11th.

The Health Minister says it's the only way we can save Christmas, and prevent the Health Service from becoming overwhelmed.

Businesses that were due to reopen today (Friday) still can, but they will be forced to shut again next week.

So what do the new rules mean?

BUSINESS

• All but ‘essential’ retail must shut – that means any business that had to shut in spring will shut again. Keep reading for a list of essential retail that will stay open.

• Close contact services like hair and beauty will close. Health-related appointments can continue, for example - dentistry, optometry, podiatry.

• All hospitality will shut, except for accommodation for essential travel. Takeaway and delivery, and food and drink in motorway services, airports and harbour terminals remain open.

GOING OUT

• The message reverts to ‘stay at home, and work from home’.

• Mixing with other households is still banned, unless you’re in a bubble.

• Churches will shut, but weddings and funerals can take place with 25 guests.

• Otherwise only leave for essential purposes such as education, healthcare needs, to care for others or outdoor exercise.

SPORT AND EXERCISE

• ALL leisure and entertainment will shut, including gyms, pools and cinemas.

• Sporting events only permitted for elite sports

• Individual outdoor exercise and school PE to continue.

• Elite sports events will be played behind closed doors without spectators.

• Public parks and outdoor play areas remain open.

EDUCATION

• Schools and childcare to remain open.

• Universities and Further Education will provide online learning, unless face-to-face teaching is essential.

ESSENTIAL RETAIL STAYING OPEN - THE FULL LIST

• Food retailers, including food markets, supermarkets, convenience stores and corner shops.

• Off licences, breweries and licensed shops selling alcohol.

• Pharmacies and chemists.

• Newsagents.

• Homeware, building supplies and hardware stores.

• Petrol stations.

• Motor vehicle repair and MOT services.

• Bicycle shops.

• Taxi or vehicle hire businesses.

• Banks and building societies.

• Post offices.

• Funeral directors.

• Laundrettes and dry cleaners.

• Dental services, opticians, audiology services, chiropody, chiropractors, osteopaths and other medical or health services, including services relating to mental health.

• Veterinary surgeons and pet shops.

• Agricultural supplies shops.

• Car parks.

• Public toilets.

• Garden centres and ornamental plant nurseries (but not cafes or restaurants insude).

• Livestock markets.