Stormont agrees to lift further Covid-19 restrictions
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Last updated 26th Jul 2021
The Executive met via zoom on Monday afternoon to discuss the lifting of more restrictions across Northern Ireland, the PA news agency understands.
Ministers have agreed that from Tuesday 27th July at 6pm
✅Theatres/concert halls to reopen
✅Indoor domestic gatherings up to 10 (3 households)
✅Lifting of MOT centre restrictions
✅Face coverings in churches - switch from regs to guidance
It is understood theatre and concert hall performances in Northern Ireland will have to be ticket-only events, with tickets having to be purchased in advance under the new guidance.
Indoor audiences must have allocated seats and must remain seated throughout performances, with social distancing of one metre in operation.
Live music will be permitted for performances in theatres and concert halls and other venues, with no restrictions on volume.
While the wearing of face coverings during acts of worship will change from regulation to guidance in Northern Ireland, it will still be a legal requirement to wear them when entering and exiting the building.
Ministers will also strongly advise their use when singing or when moving around during services.
While moderate steps were discussed in this afternoon's meeting (Monday) ministers will convene again on Thursday to consider the higher risk relaxations.
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