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Economic Development

Northern Ireland First Minister praises "hard work" of the people as lockdown restrictions eased

Full breakdown of the latest changes, including how to book driving tests

Arlene Foster, First Minister of Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland's First Minister has revealed her pride in the people of NI, whose months of 'hard work and sacrifice' paved the way for lockdown relaxations.

yesterday revealed a host of dates that will soon see sports resume, beauty services reopen and hospitality businesses prepare to welcome customers back through their doors.

It followed four long, hard and dark winter months when many businesses couldn't operate, schools were largely closed, families kept apart and there was not much to do but take walks and watch box sets.

Following the widely heralded date announcements from Stormont on Thursday, business owners have spoken of their hope for the future as they finally have something "to look forward to".

The First Minister said yesterday: "It's down to the hard work and sacrifices of the people of Northern Ireland.

"I am proud of you all and pleased that we have been able to take these decisions on your behalf.

"Please stay with us and keep following the health advice so that we can keep going with our plans to open up our society over coming weeks.

"We said brighter times were ahead - today we are delivering on that promise."