TRNC government plans to reopen small businesses on May, 4, school to wait

The lockdown and night curfew in North Cyprus could soon be lifted to allow people back on the streets as far they continue to wear face masks but schools and public offices will be the last to open.

This was made known by the TRNC Prime Minister, Ersin Tatar on Monday when speaking to TRT about the Covid-19 outbreak in the country.

There have been no new cases in over a week, an indications that Covid-19 infections are declining in the country with just seven cases of the virus remaining in the TRNC. 

Tatar noted that as in some other countries, the planning process for normalization has started in the TRNC.

When one looks at this scientifically, it can be seen that the situation was well managed but we must not be complacent, he said.

The measures are continuing and we are asking people not to go out. We are still evaluating as to how soon certain sectors can be allowed to open.

Pointing to May 4 for the beginning of the normalization process, Tatar said,

I can not give a precise date and this will be based on the advice of the scientific boards.

Tatar stated that normalisation will begin with small businesses that “have little or no contact” and gave examples of the businesses to be opened but ruled out the opening of restaurants and entertainment venues for the tine being.

These attract large crows. it would not be correct to open these. It is planned to open small businesses such as workshops, machine shops, carpentries. Food shops are already running. After that, the more crowded and then the most crowded ones will be opened, he said.

Stating that the businesses he described as “the most crowded” are restaurants, cafes and entertainment centres, Tatar said that the schools will be opened last.

Schools will remain closed for now he said.