UK

Northern Ireland Christmas Covid rules: the key points

Covid restrictions are to be eased around Christmas. Picture by iStock, Press Association
Covid restrictions are to be eased around Christmas. Picture by iStock, Press Association Covid restrictions are to be eased around Christmas. Picture by iStock, Press Association

The British Government and the devolved administrations for Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales have come together to agree a limited relaxation of coronavirus restrictions over Christmas.

These are the key points:

– Travel restrictions will be lifted across the UK for five days between December 23 and 27 to enable people from different households to gather over the holiday.

– Those travelling to and from Northern Ireland will be permitted to travel for an additional day either side.

– Up to three households will be able to come together to form a “Christmas bubble” during that period.

– Members of a bubble can meet at home, in places of worship and in outdoor public places.

– Bubble members will not be required to follow social-distancing while they are together – although they are advised to exercise caution if there are vulnerable people involved.

– Members will not be able to get together in pubs or restaurants and restrictions on hospitality will be maintained depending on which tier people are living under.