Hairdressers, barbers and nail bars in Northern Ireland are to reopen from July 6 and places of worship from June 29, the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister announced today (June 18) in their daily coronavirus briefing.

During the briefing, First Minister Arlene Foster stated: "The virus continues to be controlled and the number of new cases remains small. This has allowed the Executive to take a number of further decisions today. We have agreed that places of worship should plan on the basis of reopening from the week beginning June 29. The Executive will confirm this date next Thursday dependent on the virus remaining under control."

"We can also announce, based on the scientific advice and medical advice that hairdressers, barbers and nail bars can aim to open provisionally from Monday, July 6," added Mrs. Foster.

The Department of Health has published that the current estimate of the Covid-19 reproduction number (R) is 0.6 – 0.9 enabling the Executive decision today to ease some further restrictions. As of June 16, the seven-day rolling average of new cases is eight.

The Executive has indicated that keeping R below one is a key objective as we move forward in the epidemic.

In addition, Health Minister Robin Swann has announced plans to pause the shielding advice that was issued to people ahead of the Covid-19 peak in Northern Ireland.

From July 31, subject to the rate of community transmission continuing to be low, people will no longer need to shield and should instead follow the same guidance and precautions as those considered to be generally vulnerable. That involves taking particular care when out and about - and strictly maintaining social distancing.

Letters will be issued in the coming days to all those covered by shielding informing them of the planned change.

Mr. Swann stated: “I have been clear that shielding would not last one minute longer than it needed to. We have now reached the point where, if the current trends continue, there will be no need for anyone to shield after July 31."

"We should all continue to social distance, but in the coming weeks I want you to be particularly understanding of the fact you might be encountering someone who has had to stay at home for many weeks. Please be aware of this, show respect and kindness to all and keep your distance,” Mr. Swan concluded.