Infrastructure Minister actively considering move to mandatory face coverings on public transport

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has confirmed she is working to consider the mandatory use of face coverings when using public transport.

Minister Mallon said:

“Last night I spoke with the Chief Scientific Advisor and the Minister for Justice, today I have met with Translink, the Unions and Minister Ross who is responsible for public transport in the south particularly given our cross border bus and rail services. I’m also due to meet with the PSNI. These discussions are focused on examining closely the need for this change, its impact and requirements for implementation.

“While I recognise the scientific advice is that any move at this stage would have a limited public health impact, I am also mindful of the importance of increasing public confidence. The priority is keeping people safe and that requires taking the right decisions at the right time.

“The Northern Ireland Executive has already recommended that members of the public consider the use of face coverings on public transport and in locations where social distancing guidance cannot be adhered to.  We are all in this together and any changes made will have impacts for all of us, so it is important we take some time to properly consider this issue and all of its out workings. 

“The issue of face coverings cannot be taken in isolation from the Executive’s wider recovery plan. The case for public transport could equally be applied to other indoor public facilities. I will be raising this for discussion with Executive colleagues at our meeting next week, so we can plan together not only how any changes may work, but where and when. The public need clear and consistent direction, support and time to plan and prepare for any changes as we move from lockdown.

“I am committed to listening to and working with others so we get the right solution for citizens here and I hope to make a further announcement on this issue very soon.”

Notes to editors: 

1. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office at: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
2. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
3. Follow the Department on Twitter @deptinfra and on Facebook @DepartmentforInfrastructure

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