Stormont Health Minister Robin Swann has welcomed the Executive’s decision to agree to introduce mandatory vaccine passports.

He also said a “range of sustained actions” are needed to tackle the growth in cases of Covid-19 in Northern Ireland.

Other measures are to include a significantly increased use of face coverings, more people working from home and more social distancing.

Mr. Swann said:“We need to limit our contacts and always be mindful of the importance of fresh air and good ventilation in dispersing Covid-19 particles.

“We also need to continue the acceleration of our vaccine booster rollout, and keep encouraging more people to come forward for their first and second doses."

Colin Neill, chief executive of Hospitality Ulster, expressed disappointment at the vaccine passport decision.

 “The decision to impose mandatory Covid passports on the entire hospitality industry, without any mention of support, sends a clear signal that we are of no value or concern,” he said.

“Today is another day we have been singled out.

“The majority of our sector have voiced opposition.

“There is real concern from our industry that businesses owners, who are already struggling to recover and now facing the most critical period of the year, will be the ones who must be the enforcers of the scheme, and it is our staff that will face the abuse.

“Evidence shows that this will negatively impact footfall and increase costs in the most important part of the year.

“As the worst-impacted industry, and the one singled out repeatedly for restrictions, we are facing an unknown future. Our industry will have to fight to retain staff and save businesses.”