'No strong economy without a healthy population' - PN
The government has abandoned caution in favour of the economy, the PN said on Friday, highlighting issues with the response to the pandemic.
Addressing a press conference, Opposition spokesperson for health Stephen Spiteri slammed the government for “repeatedly ignoring the independent advice given by health professionals.”
On her part, opposition spokesperson for the elderly and persons with special needs Maria Deguara emphasised the importance of “unpopular but necessary” restrictions which need to be in place to curb the spread.
Spiteri said the PN had come up with a COVID-19 action team to highlight proposals which were deemed necessary by a several health experts.
The party's main proposals are:
A compulsory rapid testing regime for anyone entering the country from abroad.
More effective testing and tracing systems boosted by redistribution of workers whose employment was effectively put on hold due to COVID-19.
Improved customer care (111 helpline, contract tracing teams) to ensure timeliness of responses and no delays in testing, contacting and tracing.
Incentives for private and public institutions to implement rapid testing within their workforce.
An emergency plan...