There were 10 further Covid-related deaths reported by the Department of Health today (Tuesday).
Today’s stats – according to the official dashboard – take in the last 24 hours with six of the 10 passing away inside that period.
The overall total number of deaths recorded by the Department now stands at 1,953.
The ABC Borough accounts for 256 – up one – and Newry, Mourne and Down District 148 – up two – with Mid-Ulster with 178 – up three.
There were a further 275 positive cases reported in the last 24 hours, with 51 in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon – the highest in NI. There was a further 24 in Newry, Mourne and Down and 47 in Mid-Ulster.
A total of 1,663 individuals were tested.
There are 579 – down 19 – people now in hospital as a result of the virus, 60 – no change – of whom are in intensive care units.
There are currently 42 ICU beds available in Northern Ireland.
A total of 167 – a decrease of 15 – Covid patients are currently in hospitals in the Southern Trust area with 105 in Craigavon; 24 in Daisy Hill; 32 in Lurgan; none in South Tyrone; and six in St Luke’s.
Meanwhile, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is working hard to help support sports teams in light of the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, a council officer has confirmed.
The issue was raised at a meeting of Council’s leisure and community services committee by Alderman Glenn Barr.
Alderman Barr asked the officer how sports clubs across the borough are coping with the pandemic in terms of finances and the mental and physical aspects of restrictions.
“The sports clubs are obviously facing a challenging time,” said the Council officer.
“Because of the restrictions they are having to use virtual means to engage with members and we continue to try and support them thorough a range of measures.
“There are 115 clubs now affiliated with our Sports Forum and we stay in touch with these organisations to make them aware of any courses, grants or funding opportunities available to them.
“For example, our coach education programme is now open for booking and will be delivered online via video conferencing.
“Those clubs affiliated with our Sports Forum were also made aware of a number of grants and funding opportunities throughout January.”
Committee members were also made aware the Sports Forum recently held a meeting of its executive committee via video conferencing technology.
At the meeting a sports development report was presented and it was felt the report would be beneficial for members to ensure they are kept up-to-date on the work of the sports forum and the sports development team.
