INFRASTRUCTURE minister Nichola Mallon has said it is "vital that the north is not left behind" as she continued to push executive colleagues to approve mandatory wearing of face masks on public transport.
Considerations around enforcement are understood to be behind the delay in following similar moves in the Republic and Britain.
Ms Mallon expected her proposal to be rubber stamped at Monday's executive meeting but said she only found out minutes beforehand that it was not on the ministers' agenda.
It is now hoped the proposal will be discussed and approved when the executive meets tomorrow.
The SDLP minister has voiced frustrations about the hold-up, alongside concerns that the measures will come into force just 24 hours before a series of lockdown relaxations.
She said Northern Ireland lagged behind the Republic, England and Scotland, where face coverings are already compulsory on public transport.
Ms Mallon said mandatory they would "add an additional layer of protections for passengers and drivers from Covid-19".
"Looking at the experience of Scotland and England, since the introduction of mandatory face coverings, there has been a direct and immediate positive change in people’s behaviour – this is a positive step, showing public compliance and reassurance for all of those travelling," the minister said last night.
“It is vital that the north is not left behind – as the south now rolls out the use of mandatory face coverings, it is crucially important, particularly with cross border services that we see all island alignment."
The delay in approving the measure is understood to centre on what legislation should apply and who should enforce the regulations.
On Monday First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill sought further legal advice on the proposal.
Mrs Foster said enforcement needed to be "proportionate" and important to ensure "we don't criminalise people".
"There are many people who may not be able to wear masks because of medical issues," she said.
"So it's important that we do things in a proportionate way and that we don't rush into things just for the sake of it."
Under current guidance it is recommended face masks are worn in shops and on public transport, or if visiting people indoors, where it can be more difficult to maintain social distancing.
The Executive Office said last night: “The Executive keeps the issue of face coverings under continuous review and has recently moved to strongly recommend their use in enclosed spaces, where social distancing is not possible.”
