Forward Look
First Minister Arlene Foster said that NI could emerge from the current restrictions at a different pace from other parts of the UK. She said the criteria for easing the lockdown would be set down and agreed by the NI Executive in conjunction with colleagues in the UK.
Health Minister Robin Swann MLA confirmed that a rigorous programme of testing, tracing and tracking will be implemented in NI. This expansion will include additional front line and key workers and their households.
The CMO said that an enhanced contact tracing programme for Covid-19 will start in NI next week.
Economy Minister Diane Dodds MLA announced the establishment of a Tourism Recovery Steering Group. The Minister will lead the steering group and a working group will be chaired by John McGrillen CEO Tourism NI.
The NI Assembly Economy and Finance Committees are to look at holding a joint session on the economic interventions required in response to Covid-19.
The Economy Committee is to hold a roundtable with stakeholders on the new energy strategy for NI. This is expected to take place in the next month.
Finance Minister Conor Murphy MLA said his department is working with the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre to design a new targeted rates relief for businesses and will have a proposal for the Executive soon.
Chief Constable Simon Byrne said the PSNI and An Garda Síochána will conduct a joint review of their policing operations during lockdown after restrictions are lifted.
The National Institute of Economic and Social Research estimates UK unemployment will rise by around 5 million by the end of May, but this includes furloughed workers.
The House of Commons has agreed that MPs will be temporarily able to vote from home during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said he hopes to be part of government formation talks in Ireland.
The European Commission will present a set of rules for the safe reopening of air travel next month, including social distancing in planes and airports.
Connor Phillips has announced a move from BBC Manchester to present Radio Ulster’s mid-morning show. David Hunter will also move from Q-Radio to Radio Foyle.
Economy Minister Diane Dodds MLA announced the appointment of five new members to the board of Invest NI. Colin Coffey, Kieran Kennedy, Kevin Kingston, Marie-Therese McGivern and Michael McQuillan have been appointed to serve on the Board for a three-year period from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2023.
Economy Minister Diane DoddsMLA also announced temporary appointments to the Northern Regional College. Barney McGahon was announced as Chair while Tony Montgomery, Graeme Wilkinson and Maeve Hamilton were announced as members of the governing body until replacements are found.
Consideration Stage and Final Stage of The Private Tenancies (Coronavirus Modifications) Bill will take place in the Assembly on Tuesday 28 April.
The Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill will go through the Second Stage on Tuesday 28 April in the Assembly.
The Economy Committee will receive a briefing from Minister Diane Dodds on Wednesday 29 April.
The Education, Infrastructure and Finance Committee’s will meet on Wednesday 29 April.
Health Minister Robin Swann will update the Health Committee on Thursday 30 April.
Fintech Envoy for NI Andrew Jenkins will host a webinar with senior industry leaders including John Healy OBE and Rose Mary Stalker as part of Innovate Finance UK FinTech Week on Thursday 30 April at 1pm.
Other Stories this week
Secretary of State, Brandon Lewis announced an additional £50 million funding for NI as a result of the Barnett consequential.
SDLP and Alliance MPs Claire Hanna, Colum Eastwood and Stephen Farry wrote to the Chancellor proposing a Universal Basic Income scheme as part of the recovery plan.
The Assembly approved a change to Discretionary Support Legislation which will provide increased access to emergency financial support for claimants in crisis. The change raises the threshold to £20,405.
Teachers voted in favour of a pay deal from the Department of Education. They will receive a backdated 2.25% pay rise for 2017-18 and a further 2% for 2018-19.
Economy Minister Diane Dodds MLA published guidance on making workplaces safer and the list of priority sectors. However, the Construction Employers Federation said this added little clarity.
Economy Minister Diane Dodds MLA announced calculated results will be used to award students studying for general vocational and technical qualifications and essential skills.
The Department of Health launched an online version of the Covid-19 NI App to help people stay informed.
Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots MLA announced funding of £4.5 million for rural communities.
UK's inflation rate fell to 1.5% in March, largely driven by falls in the price of clothing and fuel ahead of the coronavirus lockdown. Economists have said inflation could slide to 0.5% in 2020 as the economy shrinks.
A survey by NI Tourist Board reported that 427 tourism businesses have temporarily laid off or furloughed nearly 9000 staff while 418 businesses have permanently laid off almost 1,300 staff.
Big Data Belfast has been postponed until next year due to ongoing situation regarding Covid-19.
Lord Alderdice has been appointed Deputy Chairman in the House of Lords.
Tony Lloyd MP has been moved out of intensive care after being admitted with coronavirus.
Consultations
Belfast City Council Improvement Objectives 2020 – 21 Belfast City Council. Deadline 24 April.
Call For Evidence: Function of Government Bill Committee for Finance. Deadline 24 April
Consultation on pilot to instruct experts in the family proceedings court Department of Justice. Deadline 8 May.
