Shreya Nair
The Covid-19 multi-ministerial task force (MTF) could consider removing the five person limit in Singapore for dining and social gatherings in Singapore. This is provided that we “continue to work together and keep our guard up”, said health minister Gan Kim Yong in Parliament on 5th October 2020.
He acknowledged that, at present, the low community cases are not accidental. And they are a result of our collective hard work and sacrifices.
Gan further added that restrictions on Singapore’s social activity and economy could be lifted if the situation remains under control. The MTF could allow gatherings of group sizes greater than five. This is to enable larger families and groups of friends to meet and have meals together.
The government has been trying out events with a larger number of attendees to assess whether safe distancing measures can be sustained. These events include trade exhibitions, conferences, and religious worship.
Gan added that it would be pertinent to assess the success of these trials to further allow more large-scale events to proceed.
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He also said that dining out would still remain an area of concern for the MTF. This is because it significantly increases the risk of transmission of the virus. This is due to activities such as the removal of masks during eating and drinking, and engaging in conversation.
“New Normal”
The “new normal” would be different from the pre-COVID 19 days. The MTF will be detailing a plan as Singapore moves into Phase 3 of reopening. “We will share more details when we are ready in the coming weeks”, said Gan.
He also advised Singaporeans to continue to follow safe distancing measures even as travel restrictions ease as the country progresses towards Phase 3.
Gan stated that while the cases in Singapore are low, they remain high in other parts of the world. Therefore, people cannot let their guards down as this could lead to a resurgence of cases.
Furthermore, along with the five person limit in Singapore, DORSCON orange will be maintained for the time being. This will persist until the global situation comes under control.
