Northern Ireland follows rest of the UK in stopping automatic self-isolation

Northern Ireland retailers had previously expressed frustration that Northern Ireland was the only part of the United Kingdom that had not fixed a date for the change, which has already come into effect in Scotland and Wales.

Retail NI’s chief executive Glyn Roberts said: “We welcome that the Executive has listened to our concerns, as shops, the supply chain and our wider economy are currently experiencing widespread disruption with staff shortages.”

“This move will provide relief to a significant number of our members who are on the verge of restricting opening hours and are running short on several product ranges.

“Many of these member stores, provide food and other vital products to vulnerable and older members of our community, particularly in rural areas”

“Retail NI is keen to work with the Executive on the implementation of this scheme and to ensure full compliance with PCR testing”