Coronavirus: NI lockdown extended until 1 April

The lockdown restrictions in Northern Ireland will remain in force until 1 April, meaning non-essential businesses such as hair and beauty salons will remain closed.

Health officials have said they want to avoid a possible rise in cases around St Patrick’s Day on 17 March.

In a news conference, First Minister Arlene Foster said Northern Ireland knew “from experience what looks like success is hard-won, but also fragile”.

“We need decisions to be safe and sustainable, with a proper sequencing of actions.”

The executive will review the measures on 18 March.

Mrs Foster also said that the executive will publish its pathway-to-recovery blueprint for Northern Ireland on 1 March.

To read the restrictions in Northern Ireland, please click here