There have been 424 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed in Northern Ireland in the last 24-hour reporting period, the Department of Health has announced.
A further coronavirus-linked death has been reported to the department, although it did not occur within the last day.
The death toll recorded by the department now stands at 579.
The Department of Health #COVID19 dashboard has been updated with latest data.
— Department of Health (@healthdpt) September 30, 2020
424 individuals have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 24 hours. One death has been reported.https://t.co/YN16dmGzhv pic.twitter.com/MFtcS7hXY0
The number of new cases is a new record for Northern Ireland, which reported 320 positive tests yesterday.
The Stormont Assembly has heard that the increase in Covid-19 cases was of serious concern.
First Minister Arlene Foster said that if the number of cases are not stopped, then it would inevitably lead to an increase in hospital admissions and deaths.
An 11pm curfew has been announced for the hospitality sector to slow the virus.
The time limit will apply from Thursday to pubs, restaurants and cafes as well as hotel and guesthouse bars.
Pubs and eateries are being asked to call last orders at 10.30pm before closing at 11pm.
The announcement bring pubs into line with off-licences and supermarkets in Northern Ireland, which can sell alcohol until 11pm most days.
Pubs that do not serve food opened their doors again last Wednesday for the first time in six months.
