As the implementation of phase two measures pertaining to the Roadmap to Recovery for Business and Society become imminent, with the aspiration that the Government and NPHET will confirm formal enactment of further ease of restriction measures tomorrow (to come into effect on Monday, June 8 ), the most recent figures with regard to COVID-19 cases within county Westmeath reveal a figure of 670 (as of midnight, May 31 ).
While this figure is an increase of seven confirmed cases during this past week, it is also a positive indication that the virus is becoming suppressed within local communities, due to the consistent and diligent public health adherence of the county’s population.
Phase 2 Notable Measures
The easing of public health restrictions during Phase 2 on the Roadmap to Recovery for Business and Society come into effect on Monday, June 8.
As cautious optimism abounds regarding the strides made to date in the suppression of the virus, the implementation of the second phase of the five stage plan will afford a sense of positivity to local communities as they strive for a return to a semblance of normality.
Travel Distance Extension
While persons are advised not to make unnecessary journeys, they can travel up to a 20 kilometre distance from their residence.
Social Visits
Pertaining to social outings, up to four persons may visit another household for a short period of time while respecting the social distancing two metre rule measure.
Visits to homes of persons over the age of 70 are permitted but those visiting must wear gloves, face coverings and respect social distancing guidelines.
Retail Services
Small retail outlets may reopen with minute numbers of staff on the basis that the retailer can control individuals with whome employees have interaction.
Shops will have dedicated hours for those who are cocooning. Shoppers should ideally wear face coverings.
Marts can reopen where social distancing can be maintained.
Work
Employees who can work from home should continue to do so during this period.
Organisations are to develop plans for a return to onsite working by employees in light of COVID-19, considering social distancing guidelines, hygiene and cleaning, compliance in higher risk situations, plans for medically vulnerable and extended opening hours to enable social distancing.
Group Exercise
Persons can participate in outdoor sporting and fitness activities involving team sports training in small groups (but not matches ) where social distancing can be maintained and where there is NO contact.
These measure will remain for a three week period, until Monday, June 29, when Phase 3 is due to be enacted.
