Badenoch MSP welcomes some restrictions being lifted from Monday in Highlands
Badenoch MSP Kate Forbes has welcomed the First Minister’s announcement that from 6am on Monday some coronavirus restrictions in the Highlands will be relaxed.
It follows the setting out of the Scottish Government’s new five-tier coronavirus restrictions system – which ranges from tier zero to tier four.
Most local authorities will be under tier three measures (19 out of 32), with eight in tier two and five – including Highland – in tier one.
Though meeting inside homes in the north of Scotland is prohibited at this point, Ms Forbes said she was hopeful if the guidance continues to be followed 'that may be revisited'.
One of the main benefits of Level One status will be for the hospitality industry where the current restrictions will be relaxed and alcohol can be served indoors although hours are still curtailed.
For tier one for indoor hospitality, 9.30pm is last entry and doors must be closed by 10.30pm.
Under tier two, alcohol is only allowed with a main meal – 7pm last entry and closed by 8pm. Tier three is no alcohol at all with 5pm last entry and 6pm close.
It is also understood that in Level One areas soft play area can re-open; outdoor events can be held both seated and open space permitted but with restricted numbers; small seated indoor events permitted with restricted numbers.
Ms Forbes said: “After three weeks of additional restrictions, I’m sure there will be some relief that the sacrifices of many people in the Highlands and Islands mean we can now move to Level 1.
“There are still some restrictions, based on the advice of the clinicians and scientists, not to ease up on indoor household gatherings but I hope that in time if we comply and see the figures decrease that may be revisited.
“These are tough and challenging times, as we see many harms inflicted on the economy, on health and on wider society.
“It is a fine balance to strike between the many harms and there are no easy solutions.”
Most of the Central Belt regions have been put into Level Three meaning that residents there are unable to travel to the Highlands and vice versa.
Travelling outside of a Level Three area is not permitted unless absolutely necessary - for example to travel to work or school.
Weddings and life events can go-ahead but are restricted to a maximum of 20 people in Level One areas. Indoor contact sports for adults are not permitted. Only those unable to work from home should go to their place of employment.
