DUP Update - 22nd May 2020
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** Small steps towards the 'new normal' take effect
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First Minister Arlene Foster speaking earlier this week.
On Monday, First Minister and Party Leader Arlene Foster was able to announce a number of relaxations to the COVID-19 restrictions.

From now:

⛪ Churches can open for individual prayer.

🚗 ⛪ Drive-in church services are allowed.

🚗 🎥 Drive-in cinema, theatre and concerts are allowed.

👫 Groups of up to 6 people can meet outdoors.

The First Minister did recognise that many people wish to meet with relatives indoors, but confirmed that the scientific and medical advice does not yet support this happening.

However, in an interview with BBC Radio Ulster, the First Minister did commit to keeping this issue under review.

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Arlene Foster interviewed on BBC Radio Ulster discussing why indoor gatherings can not yet take place.


** Updates from this week
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**
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** Economy Minister Diane Dodds
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* Welcomed the Executive's decision to extend rates relief ([link removed]) for businesses.

* Announced the opening of the £40million NI Micro-business ([link removed]) Hardship Fund.

* Has written to local students ([link removed]) assuring them no-one should be placed under additional or undue pressure as a result of COVID-19.


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Economy Minister Diane Dodds speaking after the Executive's announcement of further rates relief for businesses.


** Education Minister Peter Weir
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* Announced a programme to lend digital devices ([link removed]) to disadvantaged pupils.

* Announced details of an Income Support Scheme for substitute teachers ([link removed]) .

* Announced temporary changes to pupil assessment ([link removed]) and reporting regimes.


** DAERA Minister Edwin Poots
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* Welcomed a £25million funding boost for the beef and dairy sectors ([link removed]) from the NI Executive.

* Urged people not to damage the environment ([link removed]) when doing DIY or gardening during the COVID-19 pandemic.

* Announced preparations to gradually lift restrictions ([link removed]) across the DAERA estate and has been working with other sites such as parks, nature reserves and walking routes to prepare for their re-opening.

* Gave his support to a UK-wide campaign ([link removed]) that aims to encourage people to drink more milk.


** MPs
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* Gregory Campbell called for the Executive to consider establishing a taskforce ([link removed]) on places of worship.

* Carla Lockhart said Health Minister should ensure a clear timetable ([link removed]) is in place for the normalisation of cancer services.

* Ian Paisley called on the Government to bring forward the UK hydrogen bus strategy ([link removed]) to assist in rebuilding the economy after the COVID pandemic.


** MLAs
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* Policing Board members discussed the PSNI's COVID response ([link removed]) with the Chief Constable.

* Paul Frew welcomed the extension of rates relief ([link removed]) for businesses.

* Pam Cameron welcomed the announcement of increased testing ([link removed]) in care homes.

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