The Deputy First Minister says the Executive does not have an "end date" to coronavirus restrictions.
While announcing further lockdown relaxations today, Michelle O'Neill stood by her comments that Boris Johnson's approach to lockdown changes in England was "reckless".
Speaking at Stormont, Ms O'Neill said changes agreed today are part of a cautious but steady approach.
She said: "I said earlier in the week that we wouldn't be following the Boris Johnson approach, that I thought it was reckless and I stand over those comments. We ourselves, the Executive, based on our own information and our own data, take decisions today that demonstrates progress and that we are able to make some easements. It is a cautious but steady approach. In my opinion it is the right one and it is a balanced way forward.
"In terms of some of the easements we have been able to bring forward, to be confirmed on July 22, but from July 26, more people from more households will be able to meet in homes and gardens. We will see a return of conferences and exhibitions. There will be a reduction in social distancing requirements. Audiences will return to seated theatres and conference halls.
"Face coverings won't be mandatory only in classrooms or places of worship but certainly they remain a requirement in other settings.
"The public have been very understanding. We are at the final stages and we need people to work with us. We want the vaccine to prevail over the virus. I don't think the approach taken in England this week is the right approach. The vaccine message couldn't be louder.
"I wish I could say today there is an end date. We don't have that. We are not there yet. We have to analyse our current situation."
