Responding to the Prime Minister`s address to the Nation tonight, Ulster Unionist Leader, Steve Aiken OBE MLA, said:
“I welcome the Prime Minister`s recognition of the enormity of the task ahead in defeating Covid-19. This isn`t a time for playing political games or politicians ducking their responsibilities. We need an intensification of co-operation across the United Kingdom and across these islands. I hope that in the coming days, we will see all Ministers in the Executive following the example of the Health Minister and exercising personal responsibility and setting an example to the wider population. This is a time for collective leadership rather slipping back into the bad habits of the past. The people of Northern Ireland deserve responsible leadership.
“We simply can`t afford to see a repeat of the wilful flouting of Coronavirus guidelines by those who set the regulations which they call on others to abide by.
“The actions we take now can save the lives of loved ones, the vulnerable and the elderly in the weeks and months ahead. If we use our common sense, these actions will also help protect the Health Service, save jobs and preserve a better future for all our children. Do the responsible thing, listen to the public health messages and we can all get through this together.”