Decision No. 015: Request for a state of emergency for purposes of strengthening prevention and containment measures in response to the Covid-19 pandemic

1. COM approves for the President to declare a State of Emergency (SOE) over the whole of Vanuatu for the prevention and containment of COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to CONSTITUTION;

2. COM approves that all Ministries to reprioritise resources towards COVID-19 response prior to utilization of emergency fund;

3. COM approves for MFEM to present to the next COM meeting: assessment of economic impact of COVID-19;

4. COM approves as part of SOE: a. MOIA to ensure peace and security to be maintained. SPR 9053, Port Vila, Vanuatu-Telephone (678) 22413 - Facsimile: (678) 26301 - E-mail: erory@vanuatu.gov.vu b. Improve health facilities according to IPC standards. c. Maintain good hygiene practices and social distancing. d. Limitation of social and public gatherings. e. Censorship of media information related to COVID-19. f. Ensure the continuation of all essential services. g. Anyone entering Vanuatu must undergo testing for COVID-19 prior to departure. Thank you, Esther Rory Acting Secretary CC: Hon. Prime Minister Hon. DPM All Hon. Ministers All DGs All 1st PA Attorney General Chairman of the Public Service Commission Acting Director, Finance Treasury Unit DSPPAC PRO SPR 9053, Port Vila, Vanuatu- Telephone (678) 22413 - Facsimile: (678) 26301 - E-mail : erory@vanuatu.gov.vu