Government to involve volunteers in Ukraine's coronavirus lockdown exit - Shmyhal

Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers intends to involve volunteers in the country's exit from the coronavirus lockdown so that they could monitor citizens' compliance with anti-epidemic rules in places where there are potential crowds, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has reported in his Telegram channel.

"Resisting the coronavirus pandemic is our common goal. That is why it is important that people do not forget about the dangers posed by COVID-19 and do not expose those surrounding them to danger. To this end, the government plans to involve volunteers who will monitor citizens' compliance with anti-epidemic rules in places where there are potential crowds. They will also inform them about the proper wearing of a mask, social distancing, the rules of visiting shops and restaurants," Shmyhal wrote.

According to him, for the first time such an initiative to involve citizens in a common cause appeared in Italy, which has been hardest hit by the pandemic in Europe. The country has demonstrated unity in the fight against the coronavirus.

"The idea has already been supported by the president, and the Ministry of Social Policy will be able to implement it," he added.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the government's idea at a traditional meeting with representatives of the Cabinet of Ministers and main government agencies responsible for measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. According to him, volunteers could remind people of the need to keep the social distance and wear protective masks.

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