Be the first to comment!Country has to achieve a balance between health and the economy – Abela
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In a news conference this morning, Prime Minister Robert Abela and Minister for Health Chris Fearne spoke about the current Covid-19 situation, which has seen a recent spike in cases.
Speaking about the meeting on Thursday night with the MCESD, the Prime Minister called the meeting “positive,” with a “unanimous consensus,” apart from the MAM on the subject of large events.
Abela said that although the numbers had increased, serious cases were low. He stressed that the country had reached an “important juncture,” where it had to achieve a balance between health and the economy.
He stressed that work and tourism needs to continue and that further measures would restrict the public’s way of life. He emphasised the importance of wearing face masks and that fines would be issued should anyone break the directives.
Minister Fearne said that outdoor events will be limited to 300 people, but must have an area of at least 4 square metres per person, while indoor events are limited to 100 people. Dance floors will also be closed.
He appealed to the public to be considerate of those who are vulnerable.
He stressed that so far the vulnerable in society had remained protected. However he said that the elderly/vulnerable are of the main concern, particularly in homes etc. Perspex screens will be used for visiting, with one person per resident and visiting will be reduced to one hour per day.
The same will be done in hospitals, with visiting restricted to one hour per day and one visitor per patient.
Following a meeting with MCESD on Thursday night, the MAM announced on Thursday morning that directives would continue, and called for a complete ban on large events. The MUMN however, said that it had suspended its directives, but would continue to monitor the situation. Meanwhile, the MAPHM in a statement said that the high Covid numbers are a “direct consequence of irresponsible political behaviour.”
It also said that, “all large events should be cancelled. Nightclubs, bars, discos and party venues should be closed until the outbreak is brought back under control. Social gatherings should be limited, and physical distancing maintained throughout.”
