Live Update: Covid-19 Bulletin Malta – Tuesday 26th May 2020
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Updated 1310
Health authorities have confirmed Minister Fearne’s announcement this morning that no new coronavirus cases were identified in the past 24 hours. A total of 1,472 swabs were taken in the corresponding period.
With no new recoveries being reported, the number of active cases remained at 120.
Updated 1125
Educators sound warning on Skola Sajf
The Union of Professional Educators described itself as “baffled” at the lack of information and communication related to the opening of this year’s summer school, known locally as SkolaSajf.
The UPE said in a statement that it has has been following very meticulously the decision-making processes, which the Ministry of Education has been engaging in, with regards to the reopening of schools. “The latest piece of news, in which the Prime Minister himself announced that Skolasajf will open its doors to our children, caused the union to feel it should express its reservations publically.”
The UPE, which forms part of UHM Voice of the Workers, said that the Ministry has made no contact with the union to inform it of any protocols intending to keep our schools COVID-free, and this lack of consultation cannot be expected to be received nonchalantly on our end, trusting in the bona fide and good practice of the Ministry.
“The nature of Skolasajf is not conducive to the maintenance of the regulations on social distancing, yet no clarification has been put forward as to how this obstacle should be overcome. Those expected to work within the structures have not been informed of any new expectations, regulations or measures. Nothing has been announced regarding the provision and use of protective gear and facilities, nor has any light been shed on class sizes or additional procedures and measures that will need to be in place from day 1.”
Updated 0833
No new coronavirus cases emerged in Malta during the past 24 hours.
Health Minister Chris Fearne made this announcement a few minutes ago on Facebook.
Hopes among the local population that the light at the end of the tunnel could finally be seen increased a notch yesterday, as Health Superintendent Prof Charmaine Gauci announced that for the third day out of the last four, only new case was identified. With recoveries continuing to be registered at a steady pace, active cases have gone down to 120.
The low numbers accounted for during the weekend seemed to give some respite to the prevalent health versus economy debate that dominated the news cycle ever since Prime Minister Robert Abela announced the further easing of restrictions last Monday. Online debate seems to have shifted on the viability and safety of re-opening childcare centres.
A number of parents have resorted to social media platforms to express their concerns, particularly if the availability of childcare will mean that they will have no option but to return to work.
The re-opening of childcare centres is expected to be part of the third part of easing of restrictions. Further announcements are also expected in relationship to Malta’s International Airport. While flights are banned until mid-June, business lobbies have been pushing for a gradual re-opening. In comments to The Malta Independent, Maltese MEPs Josianne Cutajar and Alex Agius Saliba said that the decision of re-opening airports and ports is not one to be taken lightly and must not be rushed.
