Alliance Health Spokesperson Paula Bradshaw has said that all hospital staff must be fitted for appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as Northern Ireland’s first Nightingale Hospital opens in Belfast.

The South Belfast MLA said: “The conversion of the main tower at the City Hospital to a ‘Nightingale’ facility is a necessary but difficult step, not least for those currently there who will need to be moved to receive further care.

“This step reinforces the absolute need for those at the front line to have all the equipment they need.

“I am therefore calling for the Minister to make good his commitment to give colleagues across Health and Social Care every possible support, and provide an assurance that all staff will be fitted for PPE immediately.”