Easing of rules on track
The future steps towards normality have been confirmed ahead as secondary school pupils return to local schools this week.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced in a press briefing yesterday that the latest round of easing restrictions would go ahead as planned on Monday, with the whole of mainland Scotland moving to Level Three.
It means the re-opening of non-essential retail shops, as well as the re-opening of both indoor and outdoor hospitality, albeit with guidelines on opening times, the selling of alcohol and numbers per booking.
It will also see tourism accommodation be allowed to re-open and the numbers allowed to attend weddings and funerals will also increase to 50.
Finally, exercise facilities including gyms and swimming pools will be given the green light, as well as leisure venues including museums and libraries.
If virus data still continues on a positive trend, then Scotland will move to Level Two restrictions as a whole from May 17 and then Level One from June 7, with the aim of returning to some form of“normality”in July.
The announcement follows the latest publication of figures around the spread of the virus in Scotland.
They report that another the deaths of two people who had tested positive for the virus were reported on Monday, with 178 positive tests being recorded.
A total of 106 people are in hospital with Covid across Scotland, with 13 of those in intensive care.
The news was welcomed by Stirling MP Alyn Smith, who said:“This is welcome news, and is testament to the hard work of our NHS staff in getting vaccine shots in people’s arms, as well as to the patience of members of the public as we have endured another lockdown.
“I for one can’t wait to visit the many incredible hospitality businesses across the Stirling area. This has been a really difficult time for these businesses, and this relaxation of the rules does not yet signal a return to normal.
“But I would encourage people to support these businesses safely where possible. We aren’t out of the woods yet and we must stick closely to the rules. Let’s not risk going into another lockdown, let’s make this the last time we have to come out of one.”