Shoppers are legally required to wear face coverings in NI from today

The legislation applies to certain indoor settings, including shops and those not complying can be fined £60.

In a joint statement, the NI Executive said: “The use of face coverings is a vital defence in our battle against Covid-19. That’s why we have taken the step to make this mandatory in certain settings from today.

“This is about looking after each other and doing everything we can to stay on top of this virus. It will help to save lives. As the slogan of our public information campaign puts it – ‘Wear one for everyone’.

“Our citizens have made great sacrifices during this pandemic, staying at home to stop Covid-19 spreading. Now that the lockdown has been eased, we must keep following public health advice, whether that be wearing face coverings, maintaining social distancing or washing our hands. We need to maintain the collective spirit that got us through the first surge of the virus.”

The Ministers said that some people cannot wear face coverings, due to a disability or health condition, and that there should be no stigma attached to anyone in these circumstances. “If those of us who can cover up do so, then it will help keep everyone safe.”

The added: “We are confident most people will comply, but those who do not wear a face covering without a reasonable excuse risk being issued with a fixed penalty notice by the police.”

The legislation does not apply to children under 13, or those who cannot wear a mask because of health or disability reasons. Further information is available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/face-coverings.

With the wearing of Face covers being made mandatory today, Retail NI has urged shoppers to ensure they are complying with the law as they shop.

Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts:

“Retail NI and our members will work with the Executive to get this message out to consumers that it is now mandatory to wear a face covering in all shops. We have produced posters for our members to display in their stores, which encourages shoppers to comply with this law”

“Retailers and their staff are not required to police or enforce the wearing of face coverings and it will be the individual responsibility of shoppers to comply with this law”

“We hope that shoppers will show understanding and respect to each other and remind them that a significant number of people with a medical condition are exempt from wearing face covers”

“The wearing of face covers will be difficult for some customers, but we must all play our part in reducing the spread of Covid-19 and ensure a second wave is avoided”

“Our members will continue to play their part to ensure the shopping experience is safe and enjoyable for all consumers.”

Read more:

www.derryjournal.com/news/people/no-further-covid-19-related-deaths-derry-strabane-nisra-2935719