Opinion

ANALYSIS: Baby steps rather than big strides but a move in the right direction

Michelle O'Neill described yesterday's relaxations' announcement as a 'milestone'
Michelle O'Neill described yesterday's relaxations' announcement as a 'milestone' Michelle O'Neill described yesterday's relaxations' announcement as a 'milestone'

IT IS, as the first and deputy first ministers said respectively, a "landmark" and a "milestone". After enduring nearly four months of the latest lockdown, finally there are positive signs and the real possibility that we may be returning to something approaching normality. It's going to be a gradual process, for now more baby steps than big strides, but things are moving in the right direction.

Compared to what's happening in Britain, the relaxations may appear overly cautious, yet those looking on from across the border are no doubt envious of an easing of restrictions that for them is weeks, if not months, away.

Beginning this day next week, with driving tests and close contact businesses, the scheduling of the package of relaxations is staggered. It's a complicated, mixed bag that in parts may appear contradictory yet there is an underlying logic, with outdoor gatherings and events appropriately enjoying the greatest freedoms.

Seemingly we've come a long way in six months, with 'data not dates' now the accepted driver rather than which lobby group can shout the loudest. Industry bodies were last night generally positive in their response, demonstrating an appreciation that it's impossible under the current circumstances to apply a carte blanche approach that sees everything reopened all at once. Tourism and hospitality can ill-afford another summer of gloom and accordingly the particular difficulties those sectors face in terms of planning are acknowledged, even if their full wish list has yet to be granted.

With the vaccination programme advancing noticeably each day and the R number steadily falling, everybody should be experiencing a new-found optimism that's reflected in the season of rebirth.

But before you start inviting the neighbours round for a celebratory barbecue this weekend, just remember that we are not out of the woods yet. The statistics may nowhere near as grim as January's but yesterday's two deaths and 159 new conronavirus cases should act as reminder against complacency.