Coronavirus: Nine licensed premises hit with prohibition notices by police

The premises are in counties Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone.

PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd gave said: “We, as a service, are guided by the Licensing (NI) Order 1996 and the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) Regulations NI 2020 to ensure laws are upheld and people are kept safe.

“We have been, and we will continue to work with licensees across Northern Ireland to ensure our community can socialise in a safe environment.”

The action comes after Health minister Robin Swann criticised premises which flout coronavirus restrictions.

Mr Swann said he would be asking his ministerial colleagues on the Stormont Executive to prioritise “stronger legislation” to deal with the issue.

The minister was speaking after footage emerged which appeared to show guests at a wedding dancing at close quarters.

“I am concerned that some licensed premises are flouting the guidelines, guidelines that have been put in place to protect both customers and staff,” he said.

“I am hearing worrying reports from concerned members of the public and from the industry itself and our ongoing liaison with police.

“I will therefore be asking Executive colleagues to prioritise stronger legislation to deal with this issue.

“This needs collective action from the Executive.”

Mr Swann added that the majority of licensed premises and other businesses are complying with the regulations.

Earlier this week it was announced that wet pubs, theatres and private members’ clubs could not reopen as planned due to the rise in cases.

“Some businesses remain unable to reopen, they are entitled to fairness and an even-handed approach,” he said.