McGrath Urges Continued Awareness of Covid-19.
The SDLP’s Colin McGrath MLA has urged the public to remain vigilant of Covid-19 awareness to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all.
Mr McGrath said: “We see today (24th April) new figures published by the NISRA which show the statistics surrounding those who have tragically lost their lives as a result of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
“There is much we can learn from these figures and much the public can continue to do to ensure their own safety and wellbeing but also the safety and wellbeing of all those around them.
“Basic actions such as maintaining social distance, only making absolutely essential journeys, washing their hands etc. These are all sound means of continued awareness.
“Over time we begin to see more signs of restrictions being lifted. Just today for instance, the NI Executive took the decision to allow cemeteries to reopen. This will hopefully provide much needed comfort and solace for grieving family members.
“However I urge the public not to get complacent about this. There’s an old adage ‘Familiarity breeds contempt.’ I know there are instances in some American states where other services are to be reopened and their President has really endangered people with his recent comments on antibacterial injections. We are taking a much healthier approach here.
“If we continue to treat ourselves as though we have the coronavirus then we are of course not going to endanger the lives of those around us. I therefore urge the public to please remain vigilant of the symptoms of coronavirus and to follow the strict public health guidelines.
“I want to reassure the public that my office remains open – albeit remotely – and I will continue to represent the needs of the people of South Down so whatever your issue please know that there is someone you can talk to about it. As I have said before, the only way we are going to come through this is if we work together.
“I believe the people of the North have come together in a tremendous way to support and encourage each other as we fight this and ultimately defeat this virus, together.”
