Working together in the face of the COVID 19 threat
This weekend brought good news that one of the three most recent suspected cases sent for testing in Australia returned negative,
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services still awaits the results of three other reported suspect cases sent overseas for testing.
With the suspension of all commercial flights and the enforced quarantining of the most recent incoming travellers, the Ministry of Health continues to monitor the health of those most recent arrivals, to check for any symptoms of the virus.
In respect of the government’s Preparedness and Response Plans, the Solomon Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) and Solomon Power. Solomon Islands Electricity Authority (SIEA) have both reportedly funded SBD$5 million dollars surplus each to the government towards the fight against Covid -19
This weekend also brought the news that the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) has confirmed to provide financial support to members as part of its contributions towards measures to counter the COVID-19.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has said the different forms of assistance will include a sum of $5,000 to be made available to members under the age of 50 years, who are temporarily laid off and or repatriated home due to the effects of Covid-19
It is understood that “Members whose balances are below $5,000 are to be paid 50% of their balances.”
“Members who are aged 50 years and above to withdraw up to 20% of their contributions should they wish to or else they can elect to withdraw in full,”
The Prime Minister has explained the application of member support will be for a 3 months period effective 1st April 2020 to 30th June 2020.
Last week Prime Minister Sogavare revealed his government was implementing fiscal measures to ensure financial resources would be available to counter the coronavirus pandemic and the government would support local businesses during both the emergency period and the recovery phase of coronavirus global threat.
The PM was reported to have said, “We cannot be certain how long the pandemic will continue to threaten our country, but be rest assured that the Government will do everything in its power to safeguard our nation and people.”
“The government was also implementing cost cutting measures and putting together budgetary discipline measures to free up the much needed financial resources to boost the capability of the government to strategically to protect the country’s borders and to deal effectively with any outbreaks,” Mr. Sogavare reportedly said.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
