Briefing by the Deputy Government Spokesperson, Aristotelia Peloni, on Coronavirus issue in English (23.3.2020)

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, from the outset, has emphasized on the importance of individual responsibility for preventing the spread of the coronavirus, as we need to give our Health System time to respond to the incidents that occur. It is a war against an invisible enemy and the enemy must be the virus. Our hospitals and our Health System are not and should not be in the front line of this war. The medical and nursing staff surpass themselves in order to take care of the patients and we thank them for that.

On the lockdown and limits on citizens’ movements

The ban on unnecessary travels and traffic restrictions, imposed on the entire Greek territory, came into force at 6:00 am today. In addition, playgrounds, outdoor sports areas, organized marinas, parks and groves have shut down.

From now on, the movements of citizens will be allowed only for the following reasons:

(a) Back and forth to work during working hours.

(b) To a pharmacy or a physician, if this is recommended after relevant communication.

(c) To a supply shop for basic essentials goods, when delivery is not possible.

(d) To a bank, when an electronic transaction is not possible.

(e) To help people in need.

(f) To a ceremony (e.g. funeral, marriage, christening or similar ceremonies) under the conditions provided by law.

(g) Outdoor exercise or walking with a pet, individually or max per two persons, respecting the necessary distance of 1.5 meters in the latter case.

(h) One-time transfer to the place of permanent residence.

The Greek Police are in charge of the checks on the movement of citizens. In addition, the Municipal Police, Port Authorities in their areas of ​​responsibility and the National Transparency Authority are involved, where necessary, in law enforcement. Citizens must carry their ID or passport with them, as well as the relevant certificate of movement. For each infringement identified by the Authorities, an administrative fine of 150€ will be imposed. The revenue from the fines will be used for the reinforcement of nursing staff and health infrastructure.

On the new restrictions on air, sea, rail and road services

A Joint Decision of the Ministers of Health, Infrastructure and Transport and Maritime and Island Policy, as of today, imposes the following new restrictions:

1. Temporary suspension of all flights from Turkey as well as sea, rail or road connections with that country until April 15th 2020. In order to further protect public health from the spread of coronavirus, entrance to the Greek territory of all persons coming from Turkey is also banned.

The ban does not include:

· Greek citizens who have residence permit, as well as persons who have their main or temporary residence in Greece.

· Trucks transporting goods

· Cargo ships

2. There will also be a suspension of all flights from the United Kingdom until April 15th 2020, in order to protect public health from further coronavirus spread.