Concern after spike in NI covid cases

Author: Nigel GouldPublished 21st Sep 2020

Health Minister Robin Swann has branded Northern Ireland's covid cases "deeply concerning".

With 176 positive cases recorded yesterday (Sunday) the total over the last seven days stands at 977.

Overall the tally sits at 9,341.

Updates on the number of deaths will come on Monday.

Mr Swann tweeted: "Important decisions to be taken in the days and weeks ahead. Everyone must play their part by following public health advice.".

Meanwhile, Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill highlighted an increase in Covid-19 cases across Ireland and warned against denial and complacency.

"There have been over 3,000 new Covid-19 cases and 17 Covid-19 deaths on island of Ireland this week,'' she tweeted.

"The virus is spreading rapidly within communities and claiming lives - this is the reality Covid-19 denial and complacency will result in more deaths. We must work together to save lives.''

Earlier the chairman of the Stormont health committee has referred to "areas of grave concern'' within the Covid-19 testing system in Northern Ireland.

Colm Gildernew said his committee wants to speak to Mr Swann about rising case numbers and issues in the testing system.

Meanwhile, The Southern Trust, which is responsible for both Craigavon Area Hospital and Daisy Hill Hospital in Newry said a level three serious adverse incident investigation will be carried out into an outbreak at Daisy Hill.

A similar investigation is already under way into the outbreak at Craigavon.