15 July 2020
The Government of Jersey will consider next week when to move to Level 1 of the Safe Exit Framework. This decision will be informed by updated medical advice from the Scientific and Technical Advisory Cell (STAC).
Several public health measures have been eased in recent weeks:
- travel restrictions have been lifted and a testing regime has been established at the ports
- the minimum recommended safe distance has been reduced from 2 metres to 1 metre
- restrictions affecting hospitality have been eased: multiple households can be served at a single table, licensed premises have returned to normal closing times, and pubs can offer a seated service without food
Jersey’s readiness to progress safely to Level 1 following these changes will be considered by STAC next week. STAC’s advice will be put to Ministers, who will then make a decision at the earliest opportunity.
International evidence suggests that large gatherings and events have been a significant catalyst for transmission of COVID-19, and such gatherings will need to remain under control in Level 1. The Government is, therefore, consulting on draft guidelines for gatherings of more than 40 people.
These guidelines are likely to require organisers to manage safe distancing and hygiene, to enable contact tracing, to limit access to alcohol, and to impose tight controls on international attendees. All public events will continue to require Bailiff’s Panel approval.
The Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf, said: “Our aim for Level 1 of the Safe Exit Framework is to agree a set of public health measures that enable as much social and business activity as possible, while remaining safe as we learn to live with COVID-19.
“We need to be sure that any decision to move through the levels of the Safe Exit Framework is informed by the latest monitoring evidence, so we move only when it is safe to do so.
“Any changes to events guidelines in the autumn will depend on the prevalence of COVID-19 and the risks we face at the time. I hope Islanders will understand why it may still be necessary to curtail some of the activities we usually enjoy in a Jersey summer.”
The following measures, which were originally listed as Level 1, have been introduced during Level 2:
- seated drinks-only service
- physical distancing reduced to 1 metre
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