The leader of the Isle of Wight Council has said Boris Johnson’s 4-step roadmap out of lockdown marks a clear turning point in the fight against coronavirus.
Following confirmation that national restrictions will start to slowly lift next month, and schools begin their wider re-opening on 8th March, Councillor Dave Stewart has thanked Islanders for playing their part in bringing the virus under control.
However, with the virus still circulating in the community, he is urging Islanders to keep doing the right thing in staying at home and following the rules around hands, face, space.
Cllr Stewart has said:
“While Monday’s announcement was a long-awaited boost for the country, it’s clear coronavirus is still going to affect our lives for some time.
“While the lifting of restrictions brings with it a sense of relief, it should also bring a sense of personal responsibility.
“Moving too fast out of restrictions could set us all back; we all need to keep doing the right thing so we can move through to step two. The virus is still circulating in our communities and we must all do our bit to manage the risks, to slow the spread and to help keep the Island safe.
“As a council we will do all that we can to support our community and businesses through the delivery of the government roadmap.
Article continues below this advertisement “We will closely monitor reported levels of COVID-19 and take any actions necessary to prevent or manage local outbreaks before they spread more widely.
“Our focus is now on a safe reopening of the economy and rebuilding confidence within the community, while maintaining momentum with vaccinations and testing; being vigilant against new variants and ensuring COVID-secure environments continue.”
As case rates continue to fall across the Island, Councillor Stewart has said the provision of free rapid community testing for those without symptoms will continue to play an important role as lockdown restrictions were eased. He has urged everyone who has to be out in the community for essential reasons to get tested regularly to stop the spread of the virus, even if it does mean self-isolating if displaying no symptoms but testing positive.
Dave adds:
“We must all continue to adhere to the guidelines to stay at home until 29 March, and follow the mantra of hands, face, space, in order to reduce the number of cases on the Island further.
“Islanders have done a really good job so far, and we are being helped by the vaccine programme and by further testing – but please do not let your guard down.
“As we look ahead to a more positive future, let’s also remember those who have suffered from COVID-19 and sadly those who have lost loved ones to the virus.
“Our future is before us – so let’s prepare for it in a safe and steady way.”
For further information on COVID-19, visit https://keeptheislandsafe.org/.
I am REALLY fed-up with our illustrious leader pontificating to the masses!
Tell you what Mr Stewart. Why don’t YOU put your hand into YOUR pocket and make up the pay for anyone who has to be off work due to testing positive without symptoms.
many people on the Island are struggling to keep their heads above water financially with the current situation, in fact, many struggle in normal times as a large part of the Island economy is seasonally based.
Who can vote for this Leader
Councillor Stewart is requesting ISLANDERS stay at home. Shame the second home owners we had here last week in there large numbers didn’t do the same thing!!!! A jolly to the IOW is NOT essential travel is it.
As for you greedy Stewart…you can do one with your waffle.we did our part in tier 1 you could have stopped borders being flooded and made things as strict as isle of man did, but oh No chance ..money first!! So quit asking us too listen too you and you b s ok.
Well be sensible but look after our own health.well those who aren’t sheep obv
These people are criminals.
It seems that Clr Stewart’s edict went down well. Should have followed the rule “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to speak and remove all doubt”
This man is a complete idiot slow and steady come down to east cowes and watch the motor homes that still come to the island maybe essential travel in your eyes stupid little man
It takes a special sort of stupid to come on holiday, the weather was awful and there was nowhere open, Easter will be even worse.
talking BS – Have you seen ryde seafront today – people sat on beach, drinking on benches sat on green next to pier ..where are the police enforcing the lockdown eh,…where are the fines ..all lies from the council and police..they are doing nothing,.
And Dave says:
“We will closely monitor reported levels of COVID-19 and take any actions necessary to prevent or manage local outbreaks before they spread more widely.”
Any actions necessary???, like what monitor the 2nd homeowners and ferries and campsites and don’t forget airBnB… Nope I thought not.