Responding to the announcement made by the Executive today to relax some restrictions in Norther Ireland, BMA NI council chair Dr Tom Black said:

 

“Today’s announcement can be given a very cautious welcome but needs to be set in the context of ongoing high infection numbers, an increase case numbers in children which will lead to an increase in adult cases, and an exhausted workforce. 

 

“I know everyone is keen for life to return to normal and for hospitality to reopen and for restrictions to be lifted but the progress we have made to date can be quickly lost, as we saw before Christmas when we were faced with a new variant. It’s a cliche but slow and steady wins the race. 

 

“Removing all restrictions too quickly could very easily drive up the rate of staff absences and the number of people with long Covid. We need to keep moving forward slowly with a measured approach in order to drive cases and transmission down even further.” 

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.