Alliance Health Spokesperson Paula Bradshaw has welcomed the allocation of extra money to care homes as the battle against Covid-19 continues, but warned that staff should be tested as a priority to break chains of infection before they occur.

The South Belfast MLA stated: “I welcome the prioritisation of care homes now being shown, as the failure to break chains of infection before they enter care homes has been a significant weakness of our and others’ response to this pandemic.

“In particular, I welcome that care homes are now being prioritised for cleaning, screening and testing, although here again we have to understand that studies show infectiousness is greatest in the days before symptoms become apparent.

“Therefore I welcome the procedure to check residents and staff, but continue to argue that we have to test all care home staff regularly, regardless of symptoms, to break chains of infection before they enter care homes. It is only by preventative measures that we will really get on top of this virus and protect those most vulnerable to it.”