Police stations remain closed after outbreak

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd said the closure of Antrim and Newtownabbey stations would remain under review.

“Yesterday we confirmed that eight of our officers had tested positive for COVID -19,” he stated.

“This number has not increased. However, the number of officers who are currently self-isolating and undergoing testing for Covid-19 has increased from 51 yesterday to 60 officers today.

“In line the with public health guidance, we are taking all appropriate steps to address and manage the issue. While we hope to return frontline officers to their duties in the coming days, our officers’ health and welfare is of paramount importance and we will ensure they return to duty when it is safe to do so.

“Once again, I would like to reassure the public we have appropriate plans in place across the District to provide a service to the community and keep people safe.”

The Police Federation for Northern Ireland Chairman Mark Lindsay said: “It is essential that for the welfare of officers and the public, any signs of this disease must be tackled at the earliest opportunity.

“A welfare hub is in operation to support our colleagues at this time. Everything possible will be done to support the officers who are affected.

“This outbreak in Antrim and Newtownabbey stations once again shows the extent to which officers put themselves at risk protecting society as a whole.

“Strenuous tracking and tracing are being conducted. In the meantime, our thoughts are with the officers who have the disease and I would like to wish them a speedy recovery.”