National safety paramount

Cabinet okays law to protect society in times of disasters and emergencies that threaten health, economy

A new team will prepare a new system of government functioning after this pandemic. The way of doing work will change, and the work will change. The world after corona will need different preparations because it will be different

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum @HHShkMohd

Adraft law that aims to protect the country and its residents during emergencies and disasters has been approved by the UAE Cabinet. The law ensures the protection of society in cases of health, economic and environmental threats.

This came as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, chaired a Cabinet meeting remotely on Tuesday.

The virtual meeting hosted a group of healthcare workers. Sheikh Mohammed thanked the Emirati and expat medics for their efforts in containing the spread of Covid-19.

“We followed up on developments of the global Covid-19 pandemic in the UAE in terms of health, education and economy. The session hosted members of our frontlines of defence. We are grateful for their tremendous efforts,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

The Cabinet also approved the formation of three taskforces.

Agriculture: This taskforce will develop the UAE’s “modern agricultural sector” and will be headed by the Minister of State for Food Security and representatives from government and private sectors. “Sustainable agriculture is an economic, security and social guarantee for the UAE,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

Human Resources: This taskforce will develop government human resources and provide new applications to raise productivity and skillsets, with technical preparations for after the crisis. “The reality of work will change and the post-Covid-19 world needs new provisions,” the Dubai Ruler said. Using government buildings: One taskforce will study the optimal use of government buildings and facilities, and the possibility of converting them into medical facilities amid the global crisis. “All government capabilities will be utilised to rapidly overcome this unprecedented time,” Sheikh Mohammed added.