Northern Ireland

Coronavirus: New one-metre guideline came into force on Monday

Social distancing measures have been reduced to one metre in Northern Ireland
Social distancing measures have been reduced to one metre in Northern Ireland Social distancing measures have been reduced to one metre in Northern Ireland

Social distancing restrictions specific to Northern Ireland state you must leave a space of at "at least" one metre (3ft) between you and anyone outside your household.

The Stormont Executive agreed the measure last week and it came into force on Monday after months of following the two metre rule as part as emergency regulations to limit the spread of Covid-19.

When the practice is not possible - for example when receiving medical treatment - other measures including good hand washing and respiratory hygiene should, according to guidance, "be considered crucial and adopted".

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Legal advice is still being sought in the north on making the wearing of face masks or coverings mandatory on public transport. The measure is compulsory in the Republic and fines are in place for those flouting it.

Restrictions on gatherings also changed at the beginning of the week to allow to allow up to 30 other people who are not members of your household to meet outside - while maintaining social distancing.

However, the maximum number of people indoors must not exceed six.

Those living alone are now allowed to form a 'bubble' or small 'support unit' with one other household.

Outdoors gathering to celebrate a marriage or civil partnership ceremony consisting of up to thirty people, including the celebrant, was also given the green light.

The latest guidelines also state you can attend the funeral of a member of your household or of a close family member, or of a friend if no close family member or member of their household is attending.

You may also visit a burial ground to pay respects to a member of your household or your family member or a friend.