Coronavirus briefing: Poignant scenes across Northern Ireland

Good evening,

There were poignant scenes across Northern Ireland on Tuesday, as the community observed a minute’s silence in memory of key workers who have lost their lives in the coronavirus pandemic.

The acts of tribute were particularly poignant in hospitals where health workers thought of fallen colleagues.

The tributes came as it was confirmed that 20 more people with Covid-19 have died in Northern Ireland.

One of the impacts of the extended lockdown could be an increase in instances of domestic violence. The PSNI said they have received almost 2,000 calls for help from domestic abuse victims in Northern Ireland over three weeks during the coronavirus pandemic.

Tough new laws to combat domestic violence are being introduced at the Stormont Assembly and the worst perpetrators will face up to 14 years in prison.

It was also disturbing to read about the abuse that supermarket workers in Northern Ireland have been receiving. An anonymous worker in the Province said the abuse ranged from being sworn at to death threats as certain members of the public rebel against social distancing rules.

Stay safe,

Alistair Bushe, Editor

Here are today’s headlines: