CNA
Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades announced on Wednesday the gradual easing of the lockdown in two stages starting from May 4. Further relaxations will come into force on May 21.
These concern both sectors of the economy and movement of people who from May 4 will be allowed three movements from their house a day. Restrictions on movement will be lifted on May 21.
In a televised address, Anastasiades said that the Council of Ministers had decided to end some of the restrictive measures which will allow a gradual return to an acceptable way of life without endangering what we have achieved.
From May 4 there will be no restrictions on the construction sector and related businesses, reopening of all retail shops except malls and department stores, subject to various rules regarding hygiene, reopening of farmers markets, open bazaars, again under conditions relating to hygiene, reopening of tourist and travel offices.
Moreover there will be full operation of the public sector, return of all employees to work except for vulnerable groups as per the relevant list and those who have to look after children up to 15 years old. Both groups must carry out assignments given to them from home. This allows courts to resume subject to instructions to be issued by the Supreme Court
Last year of secondary school will go back to class on May 11. Tele- schooling will continue for the others. Moreover, from May 4 restrictions end and Dental Services re-operate
Citizens will be allowed three SMS a day for movement, while there will be curfew from 10 pm to 6 am
Pray at church and other places of worship allowed provided there are no more than 10 people at any one time. Decree for weddings, funerals and christenings remains.
From June 1 church-going and other forms of religious worship will be allowed given that all health protocols are followed as will be defined by the Ministry of Health. The same will apply for weddings, baptisms and funerals.
From May 4 exercise allowed in open areas, paths and swimming. Parks and childrenโs areas will remain closed, while sport facilities for high performance athletes will open on May 4. Training of teams to be allowed from May 18.
From May 21 all restrictions on movement will be lifted. Moreover there will be freedom to use parks, play areas in open areas, squares, marinas, provided gatherings are not more than 10 people.
Catering establishments will reopen only outside, based on strict protocols to be issued by the Labour Ministry, as well as hairdressers, barbers and beauticians.
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