During the President’s Coordinating Council (PCC), Premier Alan Winde called for the National State of Disaster to be lifted. He also stated that a better Covid-19 management system should be implemented. The Premier feels that this will reduce pressure placed on the economy and in turn create more jobs.
Premier Winde calls for a different approach
Premier Winde called for a differentiated approach, as opposed to “a one size fits all” approach to implementing restrictions.
“Restrictions should be implemented in line with each provincial healthcare system’s ability to cope. We have learnt how to manage waves and have the capacity to do so at a provincial level.”
Winde emphasises that this needs to be thought through and put in place before the fourth wave. He states that the country’s healthcare platform is stable since as we have exited the peak of the third wave. As the summer season approaches, the government will continue to monitor the healthcare platform’s response, continue to roll out the province’s vaccine programme, monitor Covid-19 workplace safety protocols, and promote adherence to non-pharmaceutical interventions.
According to the recent Quarterly Labour Survey Results, 254 000 people between 1 April 2020 and 30 June 2021. The reason for this job loss is due to the implementation of the lockdown.
Electronic Vaccination System
Premier Winde further states that SA needs to implement an electronic vaccination system. The reason being that this will be able to show whether residents have received the vaccination or conducted the necessary tests. This will also ensure that international tourists can travel to the country again and that South Africans can conduct business abroad.
“I call on the National Government to look into digital alternatives to confirm vaccination status. This may include a cell phone application that could show whether citizens have been vaccinated and also record test results.”
The Premier ends his statement off with the following: “I call on the President to seriously consider these suggestions which are in the best interest of our residents and will ensure that we get the balance right in saving lives and livelihoods.”
