Finland to reopen more sections of society; keeps state of emergency

The Finnish government said on Monday it will ease restrictions on the number of people allowed to gather from 10 to 50 people from June 1, and allow libraries and museums to reopen.

The measures were ordered in March to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Prime Minister Sanna Marin told a televised press conference that the state of emergency declared in March would however remain in place.

The government was prepared to take new decisions if the virus situation changes quickly, Marin said after her cabinet held two days of talks on the further easing of restrictions.

Universities and high schools were recommended to continue with remote schooling until the end of the spring term, said Li Andersson, Finland’s minister of education.

Andersson confirmed that primary and lower secondary schools would reopen from May 14, in line with a decision announced last week. Schools have been open for the three lowest grades.

Restaurants and cafes would from June gradually be allowed to reopen, but legislation was pending, the government said.

Interior Minister Maria Ohisalo said that “essential travel” for instance for employees from neighbouring countries that are part of the Schengen free movement area would be allowed from May 14. On arrival in Finland, employees were recommended to abide by a “voluntary 14-day quarantine,” she said.

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People over the age of 70 were urged to maintain social distancing and avoid coming into contact with too many people to reduce the risk of infection, the government underlined. 

As of Monday, Finland had recorded 240 deaths due to Covid-19, the respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus. (dpa)