Every evening at 6 O Clock WLR brings you the 6 biggest stories of the day
1. Confusion over possible lifting of lockdown restrictions
It has not yet been confirmed there will be level five restrictions until May, according to the Taoiseach. Micheál Martin said yesterday "significant restrictions" will be in place until the end of April. However schools and childcare will reopen on a phased basis next month after Ireland’s health experts gave the green light to Government. Meanwhile a further 28 deaths and 763 new cases of Covid-19 have been recorded in the Republic.
2. Ulster Bank exit is 'not good news for Ireland'
NatWest, the parent of Ulster Bank, has confirmed it intends to begin a phased withdrawal from the Republic of Ireland over the coming years. Taoiseach Michael Martin says the move is not good for Ireland. The Irish Mortgage Holders Organisation's David Hall says not to panic.
Are you an Ulster Bank customer ? If so the most important bit of advice anyone can give you today is DO NOT PANIC. This is not easy and today’s news not ideal but let a few weeks pass as see the lay of the land. Ulster Bank staff still there to help you .
— David Hall (@davidhall75) February 19, 2021
3. Improvements at Department of Psychiatry at UHW - Butler
Standards at the Department have improved hugely in the past year, according to the latest inspection report by the Mental Health Commission. The Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler says she is confident a new standalone Department of Psychiatry building on the grounds of University Hospital Waterford will be provided for in this year's capital plan.
4. Waterford GAA Strategic Plan includes Walsh Park revamp
Last night, the Waterford County board launched their strategic plan for 2021 – 2030 “Waterford Rising” which aims to bring Gaelic Games in Waterford in to the future. A major part of the plan is the Walsh Park redevelopment. A complete review is set for the existing development proposal, including a financial appraisal.
5. Grange native Eileen O’Brien celebrates 100th Birthday
There was a special day for one of Dungarvan Community Hospital’s lady residents this week, as she celebrated her 100th birthday on the day she received her follow-up second dose of the Covid 19 vaccine.
6. How well do you know your Britney Spears facts?
Everyone is talking about Britney Spears this week after the New York times documentary about her ~Framing Britney Spears~ finally arrived to Irish TVs. We thought we might test your knowledge of the Princess of Pop. Click here to take our Britney quiz. And to listen back to Maria McCanns review of the documentary on The Big Breakfast Blaa click here.
