Northern Ireland companies join drive to produce more PPE

Robin Swann made his comments following a joint visit, along with Finance Minister Conor Murphy, to a Belfast factory producing face shields.

The Huhtamaki company is working in partnership with Bloc Blinds to produce 13 million of the essential PPE items.

Mr Swann said: “We are working very hard to build up our PPE stockpiles for the post surge period and the expected second surge and I will pursue every feasible route locally and indeed internationally to do this.

“The protection of our frontline health and safety staff is an absolute priority and my department continues to work with the Department of Finance to ensure that all supply lines are maximised to their full potential.

Mr Swann added: “There is also a responsibility on the public to do what they can. I ask everyone to adhere to the restrictions and stay indoors over Easter. Do not put yourself, or your loved ones at risk, protect the health service and its great staff.”

Mr Murphy said the first order from Huhtamaki “will be sent to Trusts immediately,” and added: “Local companies are playing a key role in helping protect our frontline workers in the fight against Covid-19. Over 300 local businesses have so far offered to help produce PPE equipment with orders having been placed for 75 million items.

“The crisis we face means that we must do everything in our power including pursuing supply chains both locally and globally to protect our frontline workers. The Executive is fully united behind the plans to directly secure a significant PPE order from China.”