HRH the Crown Prince: A continued commitment to abide by health guidelines is vital to defeating COVID-19

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, today chaired a meeting of the Government Executive Committee, held remotely.

In line with HM the King’s royal directives, HRH the Crown Prince underscored the importance of further strengthening national efforts to combat the coronavirus (COVID-19) to preserve the health and safety of the Kingdom’s citizens and residents, which continues to be the top priority.

HRH the Crown Prince noted that successfully overcoming the challenge of defeating the virus requires a continued determination and commitment to vigilantly follow all precautionary measures. HRH the Crown Prince further noted that it is the national duty and social responsibility of individuals to ensure the health and safety of themselves, their families, and the community, adding that precautionary measures are introduced for the interests of all. 

On this note, HRH the Crown Prince expressed his confidence that Bahrain’s citizens and residents will continue to support frontline workers and national efforts by adhering to all precautionary measures.

HRH the Crown Prince went on to highlight the commitment of Bahrain’s citizens and residents in supporting the Kingdom’s progress and development during these unprecedented times, adding that their determination reflects their dedication towards achieving the Kingdom’s development goals. 

A report on COVID-19 developments, submitted by the National Medical Task Force to Combat the Coronavirus, headed by HE Lieutenant-General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health, was then reviewed.

The National Medical Task Force detected an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases due to a surge in gatherings and negligence in adhering to the precautionary measures issued by relative authorities. The National Medical Task Force reiterated the importance of abiding by all measures, including wearing masks, following social distancing rules and avoiding gatherings.

To support the educational process in the upcoming academic year, and in line with a presentation given by the Ministry of Education, it has been decided to increase the percentage of workers working in the office for a number of departments at the Ministry starting from 06 September 2020, according to the following:

•  50% of educational staff in schools, with a rotation in attendance

•  100% of the school's administrative body

•  100% of Departments related to the work of schools

•  100% of staff in the General Secretariat of the Higher Education Council

Moreover, in support of what has been presented by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, it has been decided to increase the percentage of workers working in the office for a number of departments at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development starting from 06 September 2020, according to the following:

•  Rehabilitation, training and social care centers to 77%.

•  Employment services to 70%

•  Labour inspection to 100%

•  Settlement of labour disputes to 100%

It was also decided, based on what was presented during the committee’s meeting, to approve the resumption of the issuance of on-arrival visas, and to instruct the Ministry of Interior to take the necessary measures for implementation immediately.

Relevant decisions in this regard will be reviewed periodically in a manner that preserves the health and safety of everyone.