Mallon urges the public to support frontline workers

Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon is urging the public to stay safe and follow the guidance, as essential workers continue to maintain valuable services for the whole community.

Speaking today Minister Mallon said:

“This is not an easy time for any of us and we all need to play our part by staying at home and following government advice strictly.  But, there are those who are helping to support our communities by delivering essential services every day and today I’m asking the public to support them as they go about that work.

“Every day, my Departmental roads and rivers teams are ensuring that essential maintenance and repairs are carried out as quickly as possible.  Every day, NI Water staff are working tirelessly to make sure that supply interruptions are avoided or minimised, particularly at a time when we all need to be washing our hands regularly.  And every day, Translink staff are ensuring that those who need to make an essential journey, can. 

“As all of these workers are doing their best to support all of us, I am asking you to support them.  These essential services are required and any staff member carrying out these functions should be supported by communities across the North.  Whether it’s using public transport for those essential journeys, going for a walk or cycle, or if a utility provider needs to call, please adhere to the guidance for social distancing.  If using the roads for essential travel, stay alert for vehicles and as always, reduce your speed.

“I want to reiterate my thanks to all of those front line workers across Northern Ireland who have been working hard to keep our key services running and to support our health service in responding to Covid-19. We are all in this together and I will ensure that my Department will continue to do all that we can to protect citizens and support our communities.

Notes to editors: 

1. Health advice and information on government services is available at: https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/news/covid-19-what-situation-northern-ireland and www.nidirect.gov.uk/coronavirus
2. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office at press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.  Out of hours please contact the duty press officer on 028 9037 8110. 
3. Follow the Department on Twitter @deptinfra and on Facebook @DepartmentforInfrastructure

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