The City of Edinburgh Council is encouraging residents to protect themselves and everyone around them by continuing to follow the Scottish Government’s advice to stay at home.
Speaking at Parliament today, the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon reiterated the ongoing responsibility we all have to stop the spread of the virus by keeping to public health guidance, only leaving home for essential activities and exercise until restrictions change.
Unveiling details of a four-phase ‘route map’ towards managing the country’s lockdown recovery, it was announced that some rules could be relaxed from 28 May but that physical distancing will remain firmly in place. Clear guidance on the steps we should all continue to take to keep safe is available on the Scottish Government website.
Responding to the update, Council Leader Adam McVey said: “Keeping people safe remains our number one priority and that of the whole country. The First Minister has made it clear that progress remains fragile and lockdown restrictions can only ease if we all continue to stick to the rules and play our part in keeping this virus at bay.
“The route to recovery outlined today is a clear and welcome piece of guidance around how we can expect the first careful steps on Scotland’s journey out of lockdown to take place. Further advice from Government has been promised in the coming days and weeks and I would encourage all residents, businesses and services to follow this national guidance. We all still have a responsibility to keep each other safe.”
Depute Leader, Cammy Day, said: “We’re working closely with our schools, our parks staff and waste and recycling centres so that moves are made to further protect our City’s children, residents and workers when rules do change. This emergence will need to be gradual and phased, in line with the Government’s route to recovery plans, and our focus will remain protecting lives.
“We’re all looking forward to being able to spend more time outdoors and while these are welcome proposals, the advice at this point in time remains the same. Stay home as far as you can, follow Government guidance and continue to protect lives.”
Public advice is available on the Scottish Government website and information on Council services during the pandemic can be found at our coronavirus webpage.