Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen of the media.

Today’s press conference is taking place from the Cafetorium at The Berkeley Institute. We will host future COVID-19 update press conferences from this location to ensure those who participate can exercise appropriate social distancing.

Good Evening,

We are pleased to report that the Child Care programme for children of our Essential Services Workers commenced last week, Wednesday, April 1st, 2020. The operation of this programme is needed for children of our frontline workers as they provide much-needed services to our country during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Bermuda Government continues working to provide accurate up to date information on COVID-19. Unfortunately, there are persons in the community committed to spreading false information, resulting in panic, confusion, fear, and frustration.

Recently, the government became aware of a voice note in circulation claiming that 6 flights carrying 600 passengers are scheduled to arrive in Bermuda today. This information is false.  

The Commissioner of Education, Mrs. Kalmar Richards, has today provided clarity regarding a letter from BUT that has appeared in the media.  

Five additional test results were received today, all of which were negative for COVID-19. This means that the confirmed positive cases in Bermuda remains at 37.

Out of the 37 total cases, 14 people have recovered. There are six people who are hospitalized, all in stable condition. There are 17 active cases under active public health monitoring.

Guidelines for Deliveries, Grocery Stores, Pharmacies and Gas Stations

under section 9 (1) and (2)

Introduction:

The Government’s objective is to limit the movement of the general public to prevent the wide spread of the COVID-19 virus in Bermuda. To achieve this, under the Emergency Powers Regulations (COVID-19 Shelter in Place) Regulations 2020, the Government has instituted a curfew. 

The following Guidance is being issued to:

On Friday, Schroders (Bermuda) Limited provided a hot lunch for the Ministry of Health staff engaged in essential COVID-19 work. These staff members included epidemiologists, medical officers, community health nurses and COVID-19 helpline operators.  The Minister of Health the Hon. Kim Wilson JP MP said, "I want to thank Schroders for showing their support for the people working behind the scenes to protect us and our loved ones.

The Ministry of Health provided the daily update on Bermuda's COVID-19 status.

Twenty-five additional test results were received today, of which 23 were negative for COVID-19, and two were positive. This means that the confirmed positive cases in Bermuda now stands at 37.

Both new cases are hospitalized, and are under investigation to determine if there is a contact or travel history. 

Good afternoon everybody.

This afternoon I am joined by His Excellency the Governor, the Minister of Health, the Minister of National Security and Dr. Cherita Rayner from the Mid Atlantic Wellness Institute.

In taking note of the current economic conditions, the announcement of the 14 day 'shelter in place' and the possible social consequences, the Bermuda Government will immediately institute several temporary emergency measures to assist businesses that have a pressing need for financial relief.

The Government expects that Payroll Taxes for the period January to March 2020 due April 15th, 2020, to the extent possible, businesses will file and pay taxes as normal.

However, with effect immediately, the following measures will be instituted: