Face masks in shops will become mandatory in Northern Ireland next month

Credit: UTV

Face coverings are set to become mandatory in shops in Northern Ireland from next month.

The measure to prevent the spread of coronavirus will be compulsory from 1 August but enforcement will begin on 20 August if necessary.

Ministers said that they will encourage as many people to wear them and if people don’t comply by 20 August, they will enforce the policy.

Health Minister Robin Swann said: "We are now starting that period of engagement and education with the general public to try and get as many people as possible wearing face coverings between now and that date."

He expects at least 80% compliance by August 20 amid attempts to prevent a second wave of infection this autumn.

It comes as face coverings are already mandatory in shops in Scotland while they will become compulsory in England on Friday.

Face coverings have been shown internationally to help protect other people from contracting the disease from someone who may have Covid-19 but do not change official advice around social distancing.

Meanwhile, swimming pools, spas and community centers can reopen from Friday as ministers agreed to ease further lockdown restrictions in Northern Ireland.

The following easing of restrictions will come into effect on Friday:

  • Swimming pools in hotels and leisure centres/community centres can reopen

  • Spectators will be allowed at outdoor sporting venues

  • Saunas, steam rooms and spa facilities will be permitted to open

  • Funfairs will also be allowed to resume whether they are indoors or outdoors

  • The number of people allowed to meet indoors has been increased to 10

The Department of Health reported no new coronavirus related deaths in Northern Ireland over the past 24 hours.

The number of deaths from the virus here remains at 556. While a further eight people tested for the virus yesterday according to the department's latest figures.

Meanwhile, earlier today it was revealed that come next week, Northern Ireland will have a Covid-19 contact-tracing mobile phone app.

READ MORE: Coronavirus tracing app to launch next week in Northern Ireland

The app will be called 'Stop Covid NI' and will be aimed at interrupting coronavirus' spread by finding those most at risk of catching it.