Churches not to be closed for Easter, but only clergymen to be present in smaller churches

We have made a joint decision, according to which the law must not be broken, churches must not be closed, and social distancing must be maintained for the sake of the health and the lives of people, our citizens, Prime Minister's Advisor and Spokesman Irakli Chikovani stated at a briefing that was held at the Administration of the Government.

According to Irakli Chikovani, as a result of the joint decision, all safety standards that were established by the Ministry of Healthcare and the National Center for Disease Control will be met in the churches. He also added that the government is actively communicating with the Patriarchate of Georgia and the patriarch. "A social distance of at least two meters must be maintained in large churches, while only members of the clergy and church attendants will be present in the smaller churches. Additionally, police crews will be deployed near every church to ensure the unwavering observance of all the norms and social distancing regulations in force under the curfew. We strongly urge citizens to take into account that a state of emergency is in force in the country, and that all kinds of movement and transportation are prohibited during the curfew from 21:00 to 06:00. The violation of these norms is punishable by a 3,000 GEL fine for private entities, while repeat offenders will be held criminally liable. Citizens must unwaveringly observe the restrictions imposed by law and limit all kinds of movement and transportation from 21:00 to 06:00. Measures provided for by law will be used in case of violations. Furthermore, restrictions will be placed on cemeteries within the framework of the state of emergency for the duration of 10 days, starting on 17 April," Irakli Chikovani stated.

The prime minister's spokesman once again reminded the public that the government urges citizens to stay at home and not to break the law.