A man remanded into custody to Maghaberry Prison on Thursday 3 September tested positive for the virus.

A spokesperson for the prison service said: “As with all new committals during the pandemic he was separated from the main prisoner population to ensure the safety of staff and other prisoners. He is being cared for by our staff and colleagues from the South Eastern Trust. His family have been informed.

“This is the first positive test of a prisoner in Northern Ireland. The robust processes put in place in response to the pandemic have ensured this has been contained, and the Prison Service will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of everyone in our prisons during these challenging times.”