The government has allowed businesses that put forward clear COVID-safe operational plans to open their doors.
While addressing the nation on Friday, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said “if you are able to work, do not take that opportunity for granted.”
He said it was a privilege that many wish they had. “Make sure you are always wearing a mask.
“Make sure you are keeping a safe distance from others and heading straight home when your shift ends. “This is not the time for socialising.”
Mr Bainimarama advised people not to spend their paycheck on grog, alcohol, or cigarettes.
“We know that sharing these bad habits with others can put you at risk of contracting the virus.
“Work smart, work safely, and save your money. “Your social drinks and cigarettes can wait until the day that Fiji is safe again. “That safety will come.”
Mr Bainimarama said that with the knowledge, experience, and proven means of protection that we have, we are going to manage our way out of this pandemic responsibly and set course for a recovery.
“With vaccines coming soon, our people can be protected, and we can prepare ourselves for the day the borders re-open and our economy switches back into full-gear.”
Mr Bainimarama said they cannot afford to turn this crisis into a political personality contest.
“We cannot afford to formulate policy on day-to-day shifts in the political winds.
“We are clear-eyed about where we are headed as a nation. “We are being decisive and we are being consistent about how we get there.
“We have to protect the health of our people and steer Fiji towards an economic recovery, a long-term recovery.”
Mr Bainimarama said they had a reasonable and a tolerable plan built for the long-haul.
“And we will stick with that plan rather than subject the nation to a far more severe socio-economic situation.
“We will continue to care for those in need with the resources we have.”
