POLICE are to focus enforcement of Covid restrictions in "hotspot areas", as the Stormont executive moved to tighten rules following a sharp rise in cases.
Indoor gatherings will be limited to six people from two households from next week, while the maximum outdoors is being cut from 30 to 15.
However, weddings, church services and sporting events are excluded from the new restrictions and schools will also reopen as planned.
Health Minister Robin Swann yesterday hit out at "armchair experts" who had decided to ignore official advice aiming to curb the spread of the virus.
He said in most instances enforcement of restrictions is not needed but police have assured him they will take action where necessary.
"I can confirm that focused PSNI enforcement action will be focused at these hotspot areas, in liaison with public health authorities and as part of a coordinated approach."
This is likely to include the Mid and East Antrim council area, which has recorded the highest number of infections in recent days.
A meat plant in Cullybackey has been forced to close for a deep clean after at least 35 cases were associated with it. All workers and recent visitors will have to self-isolate.
Belfast city centre nightclub Thompson's Garage has also temporarily closed after a staff member tested positive.
It said it cannot reopen "until we are certain that everyone employed at Thompson's is in the clear".
"In the interim the entire venue is undergoing a deep clean, fumigation and decontamination in preparation for re-opening this weekend."
Across Northern Ireland, daily figures recorded another 51 infections yesterday.
The seven-day rolling average is now 40 a day, which is 10 times higher than the rate in early July.
Another 136 cases and one death were also confirmed in the Republic yesterday.
Meanwhile, the Southern health trust confirmed that two medics who work in the Respiratory Emergency Department at Craigavon Area Hospital have tested positive for Covid-19.
It said it is thought the infection may have transferred in a social setting and the unit remains open as testing continues.
