One more death from Covid-19 as Northern Ireland total rises to 505

There has been one further deaths in Northern Ireland as a result of Covid-19.

The Department of Health confirmed on Saturday afternoon that the total number of deaths here has now risen to 505.

There have also been 41 more cases of conoravirus confirmed in the past 24 hours up until 10am this morning.

The update came after an open letter from the First and Deputy First Ministers thanking people here for their “personal sacrifices” which they had made “for the good of others”.

In the letter, published in Northern Ireland’s daily newspapers on Saturday, Arlene Foster and Michelle O’Neill said because of the actions of the public, the infection rate here has reduced and lives have been saved.

They also appealed to the public to keep following the rules and advice that are in place.

First Minister Arlene Foster said: “We have now reached a stage where we can relax some of the very challenging restrictions that people have been living with, and that is thanks to the actions of people in Northern Ireland.

“It is right that we acknowledge the part that individuals have played in saving lives. But it’s also important we remind people that we’re not yet out of the woods. We are still depending on people to follow the restrictions that do remain in place; to observe social distancing; and maintain good hygiene. Those measures are still critical in our efforts to save lives.”

Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “Recovery from Coronavirus will only be possible if we work together to beat it. As our partners in this process, we have committed to keeping the public updated every step of the way as we gradually move out of lockdown.

“So we felt it was important that we write to update the public on the current situation and thank them for the part they have played in getting us to this point.

“The role of every member of society is still crucial on the journey towards recovery. The better we all follow the advice and regulations that are in place, the sooner we can come out the other side of this together.”

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