Government approves new coronavirus restrictions
The government on Friday approved new coronavirus restrictions which will come into effect on Monday (February 22). The rules were agreed in principle on Thursday.
Education
On the proposal of the scientific council, the government decided that after the end of the school holidays, there would be no on-site teaching in school buildings for one week from the 5th grade onwards to stop the spread of infection. Thus, students may not to be in the buildings of general education schools from March 1–7 .
The restriction does not apply to grade 1–4 students or when students need educational support services or, in the opinion of the teacher, counselling to achieve learning outcomes, participate in practical training, take examinations or tests, or participate in Olympiads.
There is also no restriction on general education schools, where the majority of students have special support or for school children disabilities.
Hobby education and activities, refresher training and refresher courses, and youth work and sports
Group activities in the form of hobby education and activities, refresher training and courses, youth work and sports for children, young people, and adults are not permitted for at least the next two weeks.
Indoor events are allowed for a maximum of 200 people. Hobby education and activities, refresher training and courses, youth work and sports activities can be organised for up to 250 people, provided that the requirement for people to disperse is complied with. The same applies to outdoor sports competitions.
Public gatherings and services
Public gatherings and services with non-stationary seating are allowed indoors at a maximum occupancy of 50 percent. No more than 200 people may attend indoor gatherings at the same place. Outdoor events are allowed for up to 250 people, but they must be dispersed.
Entertainment
The same rules, i.e. the requirement of 50 percent occupancy and the limit of 200 people for indoor events and 250 people for outdoor events, also apply at the places and times when entertainment services are provided. The requirements apply to the provision of entertainment services in both public and non-public places.
Catering
The 50 percent occupancy rule will apply from next week in catering establishments. In addition, the government considers it necessary to implement targeted monitoring of compliance with the requirements in force in catering establishments.
Saunas, swimming pools, spas, and water parks
For the next two weeks, only sports activities are allowed in saunas, spas, swimming pools, and water parks intended for public use, provided that the rules applicable sports activities are followed.
The restriction does not apply to professional sports activities taking place in the competitive system of sports governing bodies, including members and candidates of adult and youth Estonian national teams and big league teams, as well as disabled people.
The government approved the restrictions on Friday and they can be read on the government's website here, currently only in Estonian.
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Editor: Helen Wright