November 28, 2020 – Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic addressed Croatian citizens on Friday night before the new COVID-19 measures in Croatia came into force.
Just before the new and stricter epidemiological measures took effect in Croatia, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic addressed the citizens.
“The coronavirus pandemic that has affected the whole world has changed our way of life. With the arrival of autumn, the pandemic has accelerated. As elsewhere in Europe, we have gradually tightened measures. We are fighting against the virus on the basis of trust between the citizens and the state. With the measures taken so far, we have tried to avoid a complete closure and curfew,” the Prime Minister said.
“As of midnight new, stricter measures will take effect. They aim to protect health, save lives, and reduce the burden on the health system. We need to be re-aware of the dangers posed by this virus. One in nine hospitalized is sadly dying. New measures will be effective until December 21, and perhaps longer.
I understand the dissatisfaction of all those who will suspend their business due to the epidemiological situation. I remind you that we have so far adopted measures to save jobs and many companies. The new measures will ensure that the livelihoods of many are not endangered. During the suspension of work, in addition to the exemption from paying contributions, we will also provide new Covid loans.
We will also adopt new measures for all those who have a temporary suspension. In the years ahead, we will use European funds to accelerate the recovery of our economy.
We are reluctantly changing the law so that we can punish violations of measures. We must do this to protect those responsible from irresponsible individuals. If even a small number of those gathered do not adhere to the measures, the infection will continue to spread.
Dear fellow citizens, I am sure you are following the progress in vaccines. The government has taken all steps to ensure a sufficient number of doses for Croats. A vaccination plan has already been made. I would like to once again express my gratitude to all health professionals who are at the forefront of virus protection and who are up to the task. We must show solidarity with them through responsible behavior.
This year we will not be able to celebrate Christmas as before. Let’s show that we can give up old habits and socializing that is unnecessary. In these times of sacrifice, our priorities are health, jobs, production, and education. By protecting each other, we will win together,” said Plenkovic.
Translated from Slobodna Dalmacija
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