Arlene Foster: Our action represents a careful balance in difficult circumstances

The threat remains, particularly for our older and more vulnerable citizens. It is right that action is taken to protect those people and save lives.

Early summer saw infection rates fall, allowing the relaxation of many restrictions. However, cases of Covid-19 have risen 20-fold over the last two months, and within just the past few days, infections amongst over 60s increased from 7.9% to 14.9% of cases detected.

That level of increase meant the Executive again had to consider the appropriate response to a rising infection rate. Every decision has consequences however and I, like other Ministers, do not take such responsibility lightly.

To reimpose a full ‘lockdown’ would devastate our economy, leading to financial hardship for many families across Northern Ireland.

To take no action would see people in Northern Ireland lose their lives when that could otherwise have been prevented.

The Executive has instead taken limited action within defined geographical areas. It represents a careful balance in difficult circumstances. Restrictions have been placed upon household gatherings in particular because the evidence has pointed in the main to such informal gatherings in private homes.

Those living in affected areas should not allow others from outside their household into their home unless they’re part of a support bubble. Gatherings in private gardens should be limited to six people from no more than two households.

I would encourage people to read the regulations and the exemptions. There is no simple or perfect solution and undoubtedly some will criticise either the inclusion or exclusion of particular aspects. However, success will be found in common sense and a united desire to help the wider community through individual sacrifice.