Council Leaders have welcomed the Scottish Government’s plans for easing restrictions, though have urged the public to continue following guidance.
Speaking at Parliament today, First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon announced a strategic framework for easing restrictions, which will include reviews every three weeks.
The gradual easing of restrictions began on Monday when early learning and childcare and schools reopened for primary one to three, as well as for senior pupils carrying out essential practical work. Further easing will be subject to several conditions being met.
Council Leader Adam McVey said:
Today’s announcement by the Scottish Government offers hope for better times to come, where some sense of normality is restored and where we can return to some of the activities we have all been missing so much.
Right now, though, our number one priority is keeping the public safe. The First Minister has made it clear that we must be cautious. While the overall number of cases are falling and the rapid vaccine rollout continues, increased cases in Edinburgh of recent days highlight that our position is still fragile. That’s why it’s still so important that we continue to observe the restrictions in place, led by expert public health data, to limit the impact of this virus, which has by no means gone away.
We’re working hard to deliver services with as little disruption as possible during this time, and this week welcomed the return of some of our pupils to schools across the city. We’ll continue to adapt and respond to guidance as it changes, and I encourage everyone to do the same. We’ve come this far – let’s work together to follow the path out of lockdown safely and sustainably.
Depute Leader Cammy Day said:
The Scottish Government’s route map outlined today offers guidance on how we could carefully, steadily reduce restrictions. It’s essential that we observe this gradual, phased approach if we are to protect people’s health and safety while working towards the city’s successful recovery from the pandemic.
Of course, we can look forward to spending time with others and enjoying a more relaxed spring and summer, and we’ll be working closely with our own services, businesses and other partners to support this. However, at this point in time advice remains the same – stay at home and help 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.