Government clarifies health measures as festive season approaches : Curfew extended and restrictions on sport eased

Le Ministre d’Etat Pierre Dartout, entouré du Conseiller de Gouvernement - Ministre de l'Intérieur, Patrice Cellario, et du Conseiller de Gouvernement - Ministre des Affaires Sociales et de la Santé, Didier Gamerdinger. ©Direction de la Communication/Manuel Vitali

A day after H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince gave a speech on changes to health measures as the end-of-year festive season approaches, the Prince’s Government today offered further explanation regarding the implementation of these practical arrangements. While the situation appears to be under control, Minister of State Pierre Dartout reiterated his appeal for everyone to be vigilant, particularly in private settings and with regard to holiday travel.

8 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew extended until 15 January

On 24 December, the curfew will not come into effect until 11.30 p.m., however it will still begin at 8 p.m. on 31 December.

The current exemptions for restaurants and cultural establishments remain in place. Restaurants can continue to open until 9.30 p.m. in the evening (including on 24 December) and, exceptionally, until 10.30 p.m. on 31 December.

For lunch on 25 December and 1 January, they may remain open until 4 p.m. rather than 3 p.m.

Masks must be worn in all public spaces

All public gatherings are prohibited on 24 and 31 December

During the evening of 31 December, access controls will be introduced at the Principality’s border from 7 p.m.: only residents, workers or visitors with a reservation at one of the Principality’s hotels will be able to enter.

Measures relaxed for sporting activities

Gyms and swimming pools may reopen from tomorrow on condition that they comply with the health regulations developed during the previous lockdown. There are restrictions on combat sports.

Coaching groups are limited to a total of five people, including the coach.

School sports will resume from 4 January in accordance with strict health protocols.

There are three new testing campaigns, scheduled to run from 16 December and targeting students, residents and employees, then teachers and pupils (2,000 tests per week).

Home working due to the health crisis has been extended until 31 March.

Vaccination plan currently under development and to be unveiled in the New Year following approval from European Medicines Agency

Three priority groups have been identified for the non-mandatory, free vaccination campaign: the over 75s, the over 65s, and medical and care staff. A vaccination centre will be opened at the Espace Léo Ferré, with doctors and chemists on site. Appointments made via the COVID Centre will be mandatory.

More information is available from www.covid19.mc

Photography: Minister of State Pierre Dartout, surrounded by Minister of the Interior Patrice Cellario and Minister of Health and Social Affairs Didier Gamerdinger. © Government Communication Department / Manuel Vitali