Six Covid-19 cases identified as ministers call briefing

The Council of Minister is meeting today following six new cases of Covid-19 being identified.

Government says the Coronavirus tests emerged late yesterday and overnight, however officials say these are all from a 'mixture of different circumstances 'and there's no indication any of them are linked to the two cases announced on New Year's Eve.

One of the six most recent is again from an individual who had completed their 14 day period of self-isolation.

The case pre-dates the new day one and day 13 testing regime introduced on 23 December 2020.

All those who have tested positive are self-isolating, as are their close contacts, contact tracing is continuing and close contacts have been offered tests.

Chief Minister, Howard Quayle MHK, says: "This news is concerning and I know it will cause understandable worry amongst our community.

"The Council of Ministers is currently meeting to assess matters and what actions we may need to take to bring this situation quickly under control.  I would encourage the public to remain calm and vigilant.

"I will hold a COVID-19 briefing later today to provide an update."