NI public must heed Covid guidance or ‘critical care bed crisis’ looming

At Thursday’s media briefing, Health Minister Robin Swann said the situation was so serious that the would “get down on his knees and beg” the public to observe the government guidelines to prevent the NHS being overwhelmed with new cases.

Mr Swann also pointed out that many licensed premised have been reported as breaching the recommendations aimed at preventing the virus from spreading.

“We must keep following public health advice and we must stick together as a society,” he said.

“This is still the biggest public health crisis in a generation.”

At the same briefing, Stormont’s Chief Scientific Officer, Professor Ian Young, said: “The virus is spreading and is everywhere in Northern Ireland. This is not a good situation.”

Belfast is said to the greatest area of concern, and Prof Young warned of a critical care bed crisis if the rate of infection continues to rise.

“If the number of cases continues to increase, there is little doubt that we will have a growing and significant problem in relation to hospital admissions and the requirement for critical care beds,” he said.

The total number of people to have died after testing positive for the virus in Northern Ireland now stands at 560. Another 69 new cases of the virus were also reported.

In the past seven days, there have been 418 cases – 101 of which have been in the Belfast City Council area and 87 in Mid and East Antrim.

The latest figures also show that one patient is fighting for their life on a ventilator in intensive care.

Another 15 coronavirus patients are in hospital.

The health minister said he would be asking his Executive ministerial colleagues to prioritise “stronger legislation” to deal with premises flouting the guidelines.

Mr Swann’s comments come after footage emerged which appeared to show a large number of guests at a wedding dancing in close proximity to each other.

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

Mr Swann added: “Some businesses remain unable to reopen, they are entitled to fairness and an even-handed approach.

“But if you flout the rules you must face the consequences.”

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