To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the COVID-19 testing facilities within a 10 miles radius of Coleraine; (ii) whether he has any plans to increase the number COVID-19 testing facilities, including mobile units, as we approach winter; (iii) what plans he has to improve access for COVID-19 testing for those who do not have access to private transport; and (iv) for his assessment of the impact on the rate of infection if those being tested have to travel longer distances.

There is currently one permanent walk-through COVID-19 test site located at Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine, which opened on 21 October 2020. The nearest drive through site to Coleraine is at 60 Clooney Road Maydown, Derry / Londonderry (25 miles).

Overall testing capacity and the number and location of test sites is continually reviewed by my Department and the Public Health Agency. There has been a number of expansions over recent months. There is now a total of five fixed test centres; ten permanent walk through test centres and fifteen Mobile Testing Units deployed across Northern Ireland. Full details can be found on the the Public Health Agency (PHA) website at Testing for COVID-19 | HSC Public Health Agency (hscni.net).

There is provision to obtain Home Test Kits which can be ordered via the online testing portal and returned by post for analysis. In circumstances where an individual is unable to travel and has no one who can help them with a home testing kit, the relevant Health and Social Care Trust will ensure that appropriate support is provided to the individual in their own home.

Tests in Northern Ireland can be accessed in a number of ways including by Home Test Kits by post. Most COVID-19 tests slots at testing centres are offered within a reasonably short travel distance. If there is a need to travel for a test, the public are asked to follow the advice on safe travel in order to help stop the spread of the virus. This advice includes being mindful of spreading the virus to others whilst travelling, practise social distancing, good hand and respiratory hygiene, wear a face covering.