The NI executive is to meet later to discuss the easing of Covid-19 restrictions over Christmas.

Earlier this week, ministers from across the UK agreed three households could mix for five days from 23-27 December.

The executive will discuss the new Christmas rules and consider how best to promote them in the days ahead.

According to the BBC it is expected there will also be a discussion about the restrictions which have seen hospitality and non-essential retail close until December 11.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride said it was important to get Covid-19 transmission “as low as possible” in the run up to Christmas.

He has warned that this year cannot be a “normal Christmas”.

The UK government has said anyone travelling to or from Northern Ireland can travel on 22 and 28 December, but “only meet with their Christmas bubble” between 23 and 27 December.