Up to 80,000 people will lose their jobs today when the construction sector temporarily closes down until January 31st, following new restrictions imposed by the Government.
There are a small number of exceptions, including some health, social housing and education projects.
Meanwhile an emergency meeting is taking place today, as the country's nurses say they can no longer provide a safe service. The INMO says hospital staffing is in 'freefall', with over 3,500 nurses out of work due to Covid-19.
It comes as a record 1,043 patients were in hospital with the virus by 2 o’clock yesterday afternoon.
