Row erupts as Sammy Wilson attacks NI health chief over calls for full lockdown

Dear reader
With a little over a week to the scheduled end of the coronavirus restrictions in Northern Ireland, a bitter row has broken out over whether the stringent measures on hospitality should be extended.
Dr Tom Black, the chair of the British Medical Association (BMA) in Northern Ireland, has been outspoken in his views about extending the lockdown, calling for the Province to be subject to a stricter lockdown, similar to that introduced in England.
However, he was subject to a stinging attack by East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson, who accused Dr Black of being “totally irresponsible”. The veteran DUP MP also urged the Stormont Executive to “ignore” Dr Black’s advice and reopen hospitality as planned in the middle of the month.
The row took place as another 12 deaths related to coronavirus were recorded in Northern Ireland over the last 24 hours. In addition, another 506 positive coronavirus cases were recorded by the Department of Health.
The economic cost of the coronavirus restrictions continues to affect the hospitality sector, with the Coach nightclub, one of Northern Ireland’s best known nightspots, confirming that it is closing for good.
The Banbridge nightclub attracted thousands of revellers from all across Northern Ireland and further afield over the years, and is on the highest profile entertainment casualties yet from the virus.
Alistair Bushe
Editor

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