Registering births and deaths has been simplified due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Central Registry is allowing both to be done through the government’s online services portal.

Registrar general Edward Clague said: ’In the circumstances that we find ourselves in, we understand the need to remove any unnecessary contact and this new process will ensure that everyone will be able to register their event in a safe and timely manner.’

Under the temporary measure, informants will no longer be required to officially sign the register in person at the Civil Registry.

And for the registration of deaths, funeral directors can now act as informants if instructed to do so by a relative of the deceased.

Individuals will also be able to order and pay for the required number of certificates online.