The City of Edinburgh Council’s Leaders have expressed disappointment in the decision to keep Edinburgh in level three of the Scottish Government’s COVID-19 restrictions framework.
Council Leader Adam McVey and Depute Leader Cammy Day have been pressing the case for Edinburgh’s restrictions to be eased, in recognition of the city’s relatively low COVID case numbers, and the care taken by residents and businesses keeping to the rules.
On Tuesday they responded to the First Minister’s announcement.
Council Leader Adam McVey said:
I’m extremely disappointed. Our numbers are stable and have now been consistently within the rates of level two for some time. We know what a dire situation local businesses continue to face and the latest news will be yet another blow in the lead-up to the Christmas period – which should be their busiest time of the year. I’ve been strongly pressing for Edinburgh’s case to move to a lower level of restrictions when safe to do so. The data suggest that time should have been now.
It’s thanks to everyone following the guidance that our numbers have fallen and it’s why the Capital’s expectation was rightly that we would be moving to level two. I’ve asked to meet the Government as a matter of urgency to ensure they give a full explanation to the people of Edinburgh of the public health advice that they have based their decision on. I’ll also be pressing the case for additional financial support for our businesses who will need additional help following this decision.
Despite this situation we need to continue to do everything we can over the coming week to continue to make progress - that means following the guidance, maintaining social distancing and washing hands and using sanitiser regularly.
Depute Leader Cammy Day said:
This is an outrage and slap in the face for the many businesses, individuals and families who have so carefully stuck to restrictions over the winter so far, suffering significant losses and missing out on seeing one another over the festive period.
It’s down to them that our cases per 100,000 are lower than many areas around the country, including some already in level two, so we completely understand those who are questioning today’s decision to retain the current restrictions in Edinburgh. We will continue to do everything in our power to ensure this is recognised by the Scottish Government, and will be calling for them to reconsider and reverse their decision!
Find out more about COVID-19 related service updates on the Council website.