Yesterday, the NI Executive announced further easing of Covid-19 restrictions. Easements are due to take place on Monday 26 July, subject to ratification on Thursday 22 July.

Below is a key summary of the Covid-19 restrictions to be lifted.

Easements for Northern Ireland

From 26 July:

  • Conferences and exhibitions can resume;
  • Audiences will be able to attend seated theatres and concert halls, with entry to performances ticket-only;
  • In concert venues, theatres and indoor venues, live music will be permitted for rehearsals and performances with no restriction to background or ambient levels of volume;
  • In indoor domestic settings, a maximum of ten people from no more than three households;
  • At outdoor domestic settings a maximum of 15 people from an unlimited number of households will be permitted. Children aged 12 and under are not counted in the total number.
  • The requirement for the wearing of face coverings in places of worship will move from regulations to guidance only.

International Travel

From 26 July, arrivals from amber list countries who have been fully vaccinated in the UK will not have to self-isolate or take a day 8 test post-arrival.

Removal of Remaining Restrictions

The NI Executive will consider removing the requirements on face coverings in all settings, the requirements for self-isolation and travel, and more, in an Executive meeting on 12 August. At this meeting, the Executive will also consider issues relating to working from home, further relaxations in domestic settings, the remaining mitigations in the hospitality sector, and more.