Trade unions are once again urging the support of the public at 8pm in recognition of the ‘blue light services’.
It comes as Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab – standing in for Prime Minister Boris Johnson – says the lockdown is to be extended indefinitely.
He said measures must remain until clear evidence existed that “we’ve moved beyond the peak”.
Tonight, UNISON is asking people to show support for its members and all those working in frontline public services responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The public should join in a mass round of applause at 8pm while staying in their homes.
Civic buildings in Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough will be lit in blue in support.
The sight of the Palace, Armagh Gaol, Craigavon Civic Centre and Town Hall in Banbridge is a very visible reflection of the gratitude of the people of the borough for our NHS heroes.
Meanwhile, UNISON members working at Craigavon Area Hospital, alongside their colleagues in the NI Fire and Rescue Service, NI Ambulance Service and PSNI, will hold a short event to recognise and acknowledge the public support, making sure at all times to abide by the public health measures in place around social distancing.
Their message to the public will be to thank them for their support and remind them to stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.
Commenting on the support shown by the public, UNISON Craigavon Hospital joint branch secretary and hospital worker Dawn Emerson said: “We want to thank the public for their support.
“We are staying here working for you – all we ask is that you follow government guidelines and stay at home for us.”
UNISON joint branch secretary and hospital worker, John Creaney, added: “We also want to thank all key frontline workers in health, social care in the community and beyond.
“Please stay at home this Easter whilst we work.”
