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All shops in Northern Ireland will be able to open later today.<\/p>\nAll shops in Northern Ireland will be able to open later today.<\/p>\n
They were given the all-clear by Stormont ministers on Thursday following reduced numbers of coronavirus infections and deaths.<\/p>\n
Scientific experts estimated the level of transmission of the virus was manageable.<\/p>\n
Outlets like independently-run book shops have spent days getting ready and installing protective screens.<\/p>\n
Those based in shopping centers also received the green light as ministers accelerated the pace at which society emerges from lockdown.<\/p>\n
From Monday, a much broader range of retailers in England will also open their doors.<\/p>\n
They are adapting their stores to abide by social distancing restrictions.<\/p>\n
Larger firms like home furniture giant Ikea and DIY store B&Q were already accepting customers, with social-distancing measures in place.<\/p>\n
Fast food chains like McDonald\u2019s have reopened.<\/p>\n
Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts represents small and medium-sized businesses.<\/p>\n
He said: \u201cThis is a very welcome decision which now allows our local retail sector as a whole to reopen and play its role in the economic recovery of Northern Ireland.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith many retailers reopening tomorrow and over the next few days, I would make an appeal to shoppers to be patient and respectful with shop staff.<\/p>\n
\u201cSubstantial operational changes have had to be made for shops to comply with social distancing so it is likely that shoppers will experience increased queuing outside some stores.\u201d<\/p>\n
Economy Minister Diane Dodds said it was great news but urged people to be considerate when shopping.<\/p>\n
She added: \u201cThis is a further step in getting the economy moving again.\u201d<\/p>\n
President of Newry Chamber of Commerce in Co Down, Emma Marmion-Mullen, said it was an important first step.<\/p>\n
She said: \u201cThe road to recovery will be challenging.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe financial support measures from the UK Government and the Executive have helped businesses to survive and keep people in employment.\u201d<\/p>\n
People living alone will be reunited with their families after three months of coronavirus lockdown in a major step towards normality in Northern Ireland.<\/p>\n
From June 13, people living on their own will be able to meet with one other household to combat loneliness caused by the restrictions, First Minister Arlene Foster said.<\/p>\n