Phase 5 rules to be announced Monday

On Monday the Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration will hold a significant meeting, led by PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, to decide several major issues of importance to Thailand as well as foreigners hoping to come into the country. The issues to be discussed and expected to be resolved are:

• An official decision on “Phase 5” relief measures and the date of relaxation. This includes bars, pubs, nightclubs, karaokes, live music venues and others that have been closed since March due to the Emergency Decree. The CCSA has previously announced they aim to start Phase 5 on July 1, with a list of proposed rules and regulations disclosed at a press conference earlier this week. Monday’s meeting will make a final decision on going ahead with this phase and the final rules for nightlife-related venues. Schools are also a major part of Phase 5 relief and are scheduled to start classes next week, while nightlife owners have been cautioned to prepare for reopening, but await final orders.
• A decision on whether children living near the borders of Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia, and who generally attend Thai schools, will be allowed to attend the new school semester.
• “Possibly” a final decision between the government and the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand on the lifting of the current ban on inbound international travel, allowing a limited number of foreigners into the country. Current indications are that those holding work permits, some medical tourists, diplomats and a limited number of those with Thai dependents will be the first to be allowed. No general opening for tourists is expected.
• A decision on the recommendation by the National Security Council that the Emergency Decree be extended for an additional month. If approved, it will need approval from the Cabinet, which is scheduled to meet on Tuesday.
• Easing social distancing measures at some venues, especially transportation. Phase 5, if finalised, is expected to see a significant rise in the use of public transportation, and as a result proposals to ease social distancing on buses and trains are likely to be approved. “Travel bubble” discussions have been suspended until August and further review of the Covid-19 situation worldwide

The meeting, originally scheduled for yesterday, was postponed until Monday due to the PM’s commitment to an Asean conference.

SOURCE: The Pattaya News