Health Minister Swann to discuss coronavirus restrictions legal advice with ministers

Health Minister Robin Swann has said he has received legal advice on what he can do on coronavirus restrictions, and will discuss it with ministerial colleagues.

Executive ministers were due to meet on Thursday to review the measures.

However, following the resignation of Paul Givan as First Minister, that meeting is no longer able to take place. Robin Swann sought legal advice about acting unilaterally.

He has previously indicated he wants to lift most, if not all, of the remaining coronavirus restrictions.

It is unclear if Mr Swann can act, or if he would need the green light from the Executive.

In an update on Thursday, he said the advice had been received on the factors he needed to consider.

"This advice is now being given careful consideration and it is my intention to engage with ministerial colleagues," an update from the minister said.

It is believed the advice from the attorney general has highlighted potential legal complications of Minister Robin Swann acting without the wider endorsement of an executive.

Executive approval is ordinarily required for decisions that are significant, controversial or cross cutting.

It is understood Mr Swann is now considering whether lifting the remaining restrictions crosses those thresholds.

Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill said there was a “real prospect” the public will be kept in Covid restrictions for legal issues as opposed to health reasons. “This is the direct consequence of the DUP stunt last week. They are walking away while the rest of us are trying to deal with the pandemic," she said.