Minister of Health: Ban on entry of third-country nationals into Bulgaria could remain after July 13

Following the lifting of the current state of emergency, the introduction or lifting of anti-epidemic measures will depend on coronavirus infection statistics. This was stated in an interview with BNR by the Minister of Health Kiril Ananiev. According to him, after July 13, two months after the end of the state of emergency, the temporary ban on entry into Bulgaria of third-country nationals, as well as nationals of EU countries with a high prevalence of Covid-19 should remain, as well as a ban on the movement on the territory of Bulgaria in case of presence of epidemic outbreaks and 14-day quarantine for those entering the country. The Minister pointed out that the temporary restriction on the visit to cultural institutions, such as theaters and operas, would remain in place. Next week, a plan of the Minister of Culture for the gradual opening of indoor activities would be discussed.

11% of all identified cases of Covid-19 infection in Bulgaria are among medical staff

1965 are the confirmed cases of Covid-19 infection in Bulgaria. This is shown by data from the National Operational Headquarters released at 5 pm on May 10. Today, 10 more new cases have been proven: 3 in Razgrad, 2 in Blagoevgrad, 4 in Sofia and 1 in Vidin. 385 persons with confirmed infection are hospitalized, 58 of them are in intensive care units. 209 is the number of medical staff with confirmed coronavirus infection, or 11% of all identified cases of Covid-19.

957 of the registered cases of Covid-19 in Bulgaria are men and 1008 are women. A total of 91 people died of coronavirus infection in Bulgaria so far. 441 patients have recovered.

Periodic assessment of emergency measures is needed, constitutionalist says

The amendments to the Health Act, approved at first reading by parliament, lack clear criteria for restricting citizens' rights. This creates a danger of crossing the border of the rule of law during a state of emergency, constitutionalist Assoc. Prof. Atanas Slavov has warned in an interview with the BNR. "By allowing the minister to assess which rights should be limited and to what extent, does it mean that the minister could close the whole country with just one order?" Slavov asked. He pointed out the need for a periodic review of the restrictions imposed on citizens' rights and an assessment of whether they meet the principles of necessity.

Industrial capital does not agree with changes to Health Act

According to the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association, the possibility offered by the amendments to the Health Act for the Minister of Health to declare an "emergency epidemic situation" was unconstitutional.Granting the authority to an individual minister to introduce temporary anti-epidemic measures in the country or a separate region is to the detriment of the rights of citizens and businesses, as it rearranges issues which according to the Constitution and current legislation are decided by parliament or the Council of Ministers. The association also points out that support should be provided for the recovery of Bulgarian tourism and Bulgarian air transport, which have been severely affected by the crisis. The position has already been sent to parliament.

Rise of prices of number of products after introduction of emergency situation

Prices in May have shown slight upward fluctuations but in general, they remain at the levels of April, while for some goods they reached record high levels (antibacterial products) and high levels (lemons, apples, fish, pork). This is what a survey of the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria on the dynamics of prices of 31 food and non-food products in the country shows. Compared to prices immediately before the state of emergency, there has been a rise for all observed goods, with only the prices of cucumbers and tomatoes declining.

Svishtov provides assistance to micro and small enterprises

The Danube municipality of Svishtov has announced that it will provide free expert assistance to local businesses in preparing and submitting project proposals, in order to support micro and small enterprises affected by the economic crisis caused by the pandemic. Consultations start on May 11. Experts from Svishtov Municipality and the Dimitar Tsenov Academy of Economics will assist local business representatives to apply for a grant of 3 to 10 thousand (1.5 - 5 thousand euros) provided by the government to overcome the consequences of the pandemic.

Peace Run passes through Bulgaria virtually

This year's Peace Run will pass through Bulgaria virtually. However, the Bulgarian runners will cover a total of 1008 km for this country in the period May 11 to May 17. Each of the seven Bulgarian participants will run the required distance in the area in which they live, following the safety rules. The Peace Run is a relay race that has existed since 1987 and conveys its message of peace through sport.

Compiled by Miglena Ivanova

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