Following the Executive`s announcement of the easing of restrictions, Ulster Unionist Health spokesperson, Alan Chambers MLA, said:

“I welcome the announcement of the easing of Covid-19 restrictions. We are not out of the woods yet, but it is very positive that we are heading in the right direction. Covid-19 will continue to put huge pressures on the Health Service and everyone should continue to abide by the latest public health advice.

“The reason we have got to this position is the commendable adherence to health advice by the vast majority of the public and who did what they knew was right. Thankfully they ignored those, including some in elected office, who irresponsibly undermined it on a regular basis.

“This is not over yet, but we are on the right trajectory and I pay tribute to the dedication of all our health and social care staff who have been on the frontline in dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic. I am also thankful for the responsible leadership of Health Minister Robin Swann, and all the staff in the Department of Health.”