All NI off-licences MUST close immediately to help slowdown spread of COVID-19

Off-licences have been included in a list of what the Executive deem to be non-essential retail services.

First Minister, Arlene Foster, explained: “Following last night’s (Monday) announcement by the Prime Minister on the restrictions we all must now adopt to stop the spread of the virus, it is vital people understand what essential services are available to them.

“This list covers a range of essential retail services including pharmacies, hot food takeaways, petrol stations and public car parks near food outlets but there are certain limitations on some of them as well.

“For example, cafes will no longer operate in supermarkets, nor will it be possible to eat food in takeaway outlets.

“The Northern Ireland Executive would encourage members of the public to study the list closely and understand what services will be available to them during the coming weeks.

“These measures will remain under review but it is crucial that people limit their movement outside their homes and only shop for essentials when it is absolutely necessary.”

The following non-essential retail services should close immediately:

- Clothes shops.

- Electronics shops.

- Hair, beauty and nail salons.

- All other non-essential retail shops, including off-licences.

- All other indoor and outdoor markets including non-food markets and car boot sales.

- Hotels, hostels, Bed and Breakfasts, Caravan Parks, Camping sites, Boarding Houses – except where caravans and mobile homes are being used as permanent residences and where hotels are providing emergency accommodation.

- Libraries.

- Community centres and youth centres.

- Places of worship – all churches should close to services except for funeral services. Weddings and baptisms should be postponed. If clergy want to live-stream for church services, they are free to do so.

- All indoor recreation sites such as bowling alleys, arcades, soft play areas.

- Enclosed spaces in public parks such as playgrounds, tennis courts and outdoor gyms.

*Off-licences were listed as a non-essential retail service by the NI Executive at the time of publishing.*