Calls for urgent Executive meeting amid Christmas plan concern and confusion

Colum Eastwood and Naoimi Long have called for an urgent meeting of the Executive to discuss the escalating numbers of Covid-19 cases.

It comes after other UK regions effectively cancelled Christmas plans because of a new and aggressive covid strain, while NI's laws are unchanged, but we are encouraged to limit our bubbles to Christmas day only.

SDLP leader Mr Eastwood said the public needs clarity, tweeting: “SDLP is calling for an urgent meeting of the Executive following reports of the serious Covid situation across these islands. Decisive action is needed quickly.

“If we need to act to slow the spread of this deadly virus, then we need to act now.''

But there’s been some criticism over the those calls from the party, after SDLP ministers abstained from voting on a proposal to reopen businesses back in November.

The DUP motion was supported by the Ulster Unionists and the Alliance Party, while Sinn Fein Ministers voted against it.

The Alliance party leader said that ‘people need answers urgently’.

Taking to Twitter last night, (Saturday), the Justice Minister said: “Given all of the changes happening across these islands today regarding Covid restrictions and with Christmas just days away, Executive needs to meet tomorrow to provide clarity for families, particularly those planning to travel to form bubbles.''

It's not yet clear if a meeting will be taking place today.

However, a statement issued by the First and Deputy First Ministers said more talks will take place in the coming week as the situation evolves.