THE British government has announced fresh Covid-19 funding of £300 million for Northern Ireland which it has urged ministers to use "to help those most in need".
The Treasury said last night that the grant "to support people, businesses and public services affected by coronavirus" can be carried over to the 2021/22 financial year providing "vital and unprecedented flexibility".
It is in addition to £3 billion already allocated for 2020/21.
The Treasury said the rollover was in response to recent calls by the Stormont executive for such flexibility and "in recognition of the exceptional circumstances".
Chief Secretary Steve Barclay said central schemes, such as furlough, support for the self-employed and business loans have helped to protect jobs and livelihoods in the north.
"But we recognise that the Northern Ireland Executive also has a vital role to play, which is why we are continuing to give them the resources and flexibility they need to support people and businesses through this pandemic.
"I would urge the Executive to use this additional £300 million to help those most in need in Northern Ireland."
Secretary of State Brandon Lewis said the government "has stood side by side with people and businesses across Northern Ireland" during the pandemic "shielding them from its worst effects".
He described the funding levels as "unprecedented".
"This additional money, which can be carried over into the next financial year, will give the executive the certainty and flexibility to deliver on its priorities for the benefit of all in Northern Ireland."
The announcement came as government figures showed a total of 15,062,189 million people in the UK have now received a first dose of Covid-19 vaccine - the equivalent of 22.5 per cent of the total population.
The detailed breakdown revealed in Northern Ireland 391,101 people had received a first dose of Covid-19 vaccine by Saturday - 20.7 per cent of the north's population and 26.9 per cent of adults.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said this accomplishment was "thanks to the incredible efforts of frontline NHS workers, vaccine volunteers, the armed forces and all those working in local and central government".
