Easing of coronavirus lockdown gets a cautious welcome
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North MP Jamie Stone has given "a very cautious welcome" to the easing of the coronavirus restrictions announced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today.
He said people have been "very patient and have put up with a lot, some of it really quite distressing" but added: "It would be awful if a too hasty easing of restrictions leads to a second wave of the virus, thus squandering the effort and sacrifice that we have all made."
The Liberal Democrat MP added: "For this reason we must keep the closest eye on every proposed easing of restrictions. I absolutely shall not hesitate to speak up if they seem irresponsible in any way."
SNP MSP Gail Ross said: "We still have to be mindful of the restrictions that are still in place. It’s important to remember to socially distance and to make sure we are protecting our loved ones by only meeting with one household at a time in an outdoor space and not travelling more than five miles to do so and to exercise.
"People in the Highlands have been very vigilant so far and this needs to continue if we are to see a further easing of the restrictions and a return to some sense of normality over the next few months."
They were speaking after Ms Sturgeon announced that Scotland would be moving to phase one of a four-stage plan to ease out of the coronavirus lockdown.
The First Minister urged the country to keep to the strict social distancing and hygiene rules over fears of a second spike in infections.
But she said that from Friday people can meet with another household outdoors, although recommended gatherings of no more than eight. People will be allowed to sunbathe and relax in places such as parks, while social distancing
Non-contact sports, including golf, tennis and bowling will be allowed for the first time in more than eight weeks as part of the changes
There was also good news for the economy as the construction sector can also start preparation work.
Garden centres can reopen from Friday, and recycling centres including those in Thurso and Wick are to open on Monday.
People can travel for recreation, although they should not go more than five miles and will be asked to remain close to their local area.
But schools will not reopen to pupils until the start of the new school year on August 11 when teaching is expected to be split between the classroom and home.
The changes come as the number of deaths from coronavirus in Scotland has fallen for the fourth consecutive week, with the number of patients needing hospital treatment and intensive care also decreasing.
The Test and Protect strategy to identify and isolate new cases is now operational in Scotland.
