Northern Ireland Confirms Quarantine for Arrivals

Northern Ireland will follow the rest of the UK by introducing a 14-day quarantine period for those entering into the country from outside the Common Travel Area.

The Common Travel area includes the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. Anyone who arrives into Northern Ireland within 14 days of time spent outside of these designated areas will be asked to self-isolate in line with the new regulations. 

The move also follows a similar quarantine scheme being introduced in the Republic of Ireland. There are however concerns that it may be possible for passengers to avoid the quarantine if they arrive into Northern Ireland via Dublin Airport.

In response to the concerns about the possible breach, the Department of Health have said that efforts are underway to finalise information sharing with regards to passengers between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Further the Department of Health have said it will be an offence to breach the self-isolation requirements regardless of how you have entered the country. 

Exact penalties for breaking the rules are yet to be confirmed but it has been speculated that £1,000 fine amounts may be issued in England.