Opinion

Ministers face unenviable decisions following Covid surge

It is abundantly clear that the level of coronavirus infection is escalating faster than anticipated on both sides of the border, with the north's figures in recent days proving especially alarming.

Friday's record number of cases - at 934 more than double the previous daily high - came as a jolt, with health minister Robin Swann admitting he was 'floored' by the figures.

Although positive tests were down in subsequent days, they remain high enough to be deeply worrying and will increase the likelihood that the so-called 'circuit break' option could be brought in earlier than expected.

This would be a short-term but stringent measure, similar in some ways to the lockdown of earlier this year but allowing schools to stay open.

However, First Minister Arlene Foster yesterday insisted that a lockdown is not inevitable and could be avoided if people comply with the guidance on social distancing, hand hygiene and mask wearing.

It is also the case that the executive is pressing the British government for funds to support businesses impacted by any tightening of restrictions.

There is no doubt that those in positions of authority need to carefully manage any move towards even stricter curbs on daily life.

It is vital to communicate a clear message, back it up with evidence and prepare people for the disruption and curtailed freedoms that are being imposed, and that includes the provision of financial support.

The recommendation from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) that the Republic move to the highest level of restrictions, which emerged late on a Sunday evening without any warning, caused a deep sense of shock and dismay.

It presented the Irish government with an extremely difficult decision to make and diverging from the scientific advice carries obvious risks.

There is enormous pressure on ministers, north and south, to take the right action at the right time, safeguarding lives while protecting livelihoods.

They have an unenviable task but the responsibility for tackling Covid-19 is not theirs alone as all of us have a part to play in reducing the spread of this virus.

In that context, it is disturbing to learn that on Saturday, the PSNI issued 96 fines for house parties that breached the regulations.

We know that reckless behaviour can have deadly consequences and it is disappointing that so many are not getting that message.