Northern Ireland

One further Covid-linked death in NI

Marie Curie has organised a day of reflection on Tuesday March 23 to remember all those who have died during the pandemic. The day will include a `Doorstep Shine A Light' event at 8pm
Marie Curie has organised a day of reflection on Tuesday March 23 to remember all those who have died during the pandemic. The day will include a `Doorstep Shine A Light' event at 8pm Marie Curie has organised a day of reflection on Tuesday March 23 to remember all those who have died during the pandemic. The day will include a `Doorstep Shine A Light' event at 8pm

ONE further Covid-linked death has been reported in Northern Ireland.

The Department of Health also announced 169 positive cases, bringing the total since the start of the pandemic to 115,511.

The most new cases were recorded in the Belfast council area, where there were 35, followed by 23 in Mid Ulster and 21 in Ards and North Down.

There were 167 Covid-positive patients in hospital yesterday.

Of these, 16 were in intensive care and 14 being ventilated.

Hospitals were operating at 99 per cent capacity, with Altnagelvin, Causeway, RVH, South West Acute and Ulster Hospital operating at over capacity.

There were 150 people awaiting admission.

There are 12 active Covid-19 outbreaks in care homes.

In the Republic, there were 582 new positive cases recorded yesterday but no further deaths.

There were 83 Covid-19 patients being treated in intensive care.

Meanwhile, a day of reflection to remember all those who have died during the pandemic over the last year is to take place in Northern Ireland on Tuesday March 23.

Led by end of life charity Marie Curie, the day will feature a minute's silence noon followed by a tolling of bells.

People are then asked to appear on their doorsteps at 8pm to shine a light using phones, candles, torches – signifying a beacon of remembrance and support for all those bereaved over the last 12 months.

Prominent buildings and landmarks will also light up, including Belfast City Hall, Enniskillen Castle and the Guildhall in Derry.

The Day of Reflection will also include virtual reflective assemblies, choirs, special services, candle and lantern lighting, yellow ribbons wrapped around trees, and many other commemorative activities.