Forty new positive cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Northern Ireland over the weekend, according to the Department of Health.
It brings the total number of positive cases to 5,988.
Twelve new cases of the virus were confirmed in Newry, Mourne and Down.
There have been no further deaths reported, keeping that total at 556.
Two patients with Covid-19 are being treated in intensive care and one is on a ventilator.
Meanwhile, SDLP Health Spokesperson, Justin McNulty MLA has urged Minister for Education, Peter Weir, to bring forward a plan for schools reopening.
“I asked the Minister to consider the impact of COVID-19 on children and students from areas of disadvantage, who have struggled to access online learning and who will need help catching up,” said Mr McNulty.
“In his reply to me, the Minister committed to supporting initiatives that will endeavour to put all children on an equal footing and this is very welcome.
“I also urged the Minister to bring forward a plan for the safe reopening of schools, noting the huge levels of anxiety that exist across the north.
“Many parents, pupils and teachers are deeply concerned about the reopening of schools on a full time basis in September. So far engagement has been lacking and it must be scaled up.
“We recognise the difficult position that the Minister is in, but he must do all he can to reassure those with legitimate concerns.
“It is vital that the Minister steps up engagement and provides this information and so pupils, parents and teachers know they can return to school safely.”
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