Denys Shmyhal: Starting May 11 we embark on lifting part of quarantine restrictions

The stable situation with the spread of COVID-19 makes it possible to begin lifting a part of restrictions from May 11 and the transition to the adaptive quarantine.

Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal announced opening an extraordinary meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on Monday, May 4th.

“The Government is primarily seeking to ensure the fast launch of all sectors of the economy that had been forced to terminate their activities due to the epidemic. When adopting decisions we are guided solely by the data of our experts. By their calculations, the early quarantine relaxation means thousands of new patients. We cannot allow that,” the Head of Government stressed.

According to the Prime Minister, the stable situation with the spread of infection makes it possible to begin lifting part of the restrictions from May 11 and transfer to the adaptive quarantine measures.

“We have had a lot of conversation with business representatives. We are well aware of their needs and demands of business, and today we have summoned an extraordinary meeting during which we are planning to adopt a draft resolution at the request of business, as it takes time to prepare for safe working conditions,” said the Head of Government.

Denys Shmyhal informed that from May 11 parks, squares, recreation areas will be open for visitors.

In addition, it will be allowed to beauty salons, hairdressers to operate, but on condition of abiding by certain rules, which have already been developed and will be presented by the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.

“We will allow catering institutions to provide only a takeaway service, open-air cafes and restaurants operation in establishments included in the state register of market operators' capacity. It is a very important reference and the ability to control, including by local governments,” said Denys Schmyhal.

Moreover, according to him, wholesale and retail trade in non-food items, excluding entertainment and food areas, and kids play areas in shopping centres, will be permitted.

“Public service institutions will also get permission to operate according to certain criteria. Museums, libraries, training of athletes of national teams and individual training as well. Dentists, auditors, attorneys, notaries, home appliances repair services. All those decisions will be adopted. The resolution will be published and businesses will be able to see clearly in what areas we are planning to reduce quarantine limitations from May 11,” the Head of Government said.

Meanwhile, the PM noted that Ukraine has been on lockdown facing quarantine restrictions: “By May 11, we ask Ukrainians to obey the rules. These are not only the requests of the Government but also of our doctors, who are actually on the frontline. It is critical to ensure the correct quarantine exit process.”

Separately, Denys Shmyhal emphasized the responsibilities of local authorities.

“We understand the importance of synergy with local authorities, but do not disregard the rules that apply to everyone. No quarantine exit decision can be made at a whim,” the Prime Minister stressed.

Apart from that, Denys Shmyhal emphasized that during the quarantine period a network of construction materials hypermarkets and some catering establishments were continuing to operate.

“Trading in building materials has been banned and will remain prohibited until May 11. The same applies to food and drink venues. All relevant cases of violations are now being reviewed by law enforcement agencies. A small store should operate on an equal footing with hypermarkets,” the Prime Minister summarized, noting that there should be no elite in such matters.