The British military will provide support to hospitals in Northern Ireland in the coming days, amid warnings of increasing pressure on the health system there.
Stormont Health Minister Robin Swan confirmed today that his request for military assistance has been approved.
On Twitter, Mr. Swan said: «I gladly welcome the approval of my request for military assistance to ease the current pressures on our hospitals.»
“This is an important practical step to support our health and care team at this very difficult time.
«I know our employees will appreciate this support.»
The British Army has already provided significant support in the fight against Covid-19 in Northern Ireland.
This included the establishment of a massive emergency mortuary, warehousing, and logistical advice for the establishment of mass vaccination centers and combat medicine technicians (CMTs) to support staff at three hospitals during the second surge from January to February 2021.
About 100 CMTs also worked at the vaccination center at the SSE Arena in Belfast earlier this year.
Earlier this week, Mr. Swan outlined what he saw as a «nightmare scenario» forcing the hospital’s emergency department to close as the pandemic continued.
He described the area’s health services as being «under pressure like never before», with «staff tired and overworked…however the pressures will increase even more this winter.»
yesterday, Stormont ministers have not made any changes to the current Covid-19 rules in Northern Ireland Instead, he agreed to a date when some regulations could be relaxed.
Prime Minister Paul Gevan said ministers were looking forward to October 14 as an «important date» but added that this would be subject to final decisions made in the previous week.
Eight more deaths of patients who tested positive for Covid-19 were reported in Northern Ireland today with 1,030 new confirmed cases.
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