Sweeping powers to restrict the movement of people to help curb the spread of coronavirus in Northern Ireland come into force from 11pm. The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 include fines of up to £5,000 for those in breach. Commenting on the introduction of the powers, First Minister Arlene Foster said: “These are extraordinary powers for any government to have to introduce, but we are living in extraordinary times. Mr Eastwood said: “The people of Northern Ireland deserve more than a tweet announcing a lockdown and enforcement powers. He said Northern Ireland would also receive additional supplies through UK-wide procurement efforts to meet the soaring high demand for PPE.

Source: The Irish Times March 28, 2020 15:55 UTC