Coronavirus News
sanma support
Vanuatu Caretaker PM on new Coronavirus-related restrictions for Vanuatu.
Video of full address (in Bislama): https://www.facebook.com/vbtc.vu/videos/offical-statement-blong-caretaker-prime-minister-hon-charlot-salwai-tabimasmas-b/573413516593086/
Summary, from Daily Post editor, Dan McGarry:
https://twitter.com/dailypostdan/status/1239866355375013888?s=21
Highlights from Prime Minister Charlot Salwai’s address to the nation concerning #COVIDー19:
1) All seasonal worker schemes (RSE, PLS, SWP) suspended temporarily. Labour Commissioner says those already booked to go can go. Special measures for those returning.
2) Extends the ban on cruise ship to 60 days from 30.
3) Reduction in international flights. No details yet.
4) Shipping and air cargo will continue as before.
5) 60 day ban on any international groups. (This might be aimed at religious missions.)
6) ‘Serious steps’ promised for kava bars, night clubs, pubs and other public gathering places.
7) Employers must implement compulsory hand-washing for all people entering their premises.
8) Missions overseas ordered to work from home. Foreign mission visits banned for 60 days
9) Municipal assets, business houses, churches and schools are required to adopt aggressive sanitation plans.
10) Voluntary price controls for every business or vendor selling commercial goods or food.
11) Local productive sector urged to mobilise.
12) Finance department to prepare economic impact assessment, urged to work with Vanuatu Business Resiliency Council.
13) A key point: Government will prepare isolation facilities in Port Vila and Santo. (I expect local sports facilities will be repurposed.)
To sum up: Lots of voluntary mobilisation, some of which will require clarification and guidance, and few compulsory measures. I suspect that’s a recognition of the limits of govt reach here, but the appeal to an already concerned public will likely not be ignored.