MASK WEARING WHEN WALKING, WITH OR WITHOUT A DOG, AND CURFEW INFRINGEMENTS - CLARIFICATION

 Filenews 10 November 2020 - by Alekos Michaelides

It is commonly accepted that decrees concerning the compulsory use of masks outdoors are unclear, resulting in constant questions being created among citizens who want and must observe them.

In communication with the police spokesman, Christos Andreou, it became clear that the competent authorities of the Republic are in consultation on the measures in force so that there is no abuse of power, although it happens in very few cases.

In particular, the use of a mask during a pet walk is not mandatory, even if the decrees do not clarify this. On the contrary, if a police officer acts according to the letter and not with the spirit, he should impose a fine of €300 on someone who walks with his dog in a deserted neighbourhood.

The official police make it clear, however, that in exceptional cases, such as walking with a pet or when a citizen carries out agricultural work on his own and there is no possibility of meeting another person, it does not fall under the decree for mandatory use of a mask. As Mr Andreou explained to Associated News, in order to clarify this in police circles, there was a consultation with the Ministry of Health.

However, for several cases, doubt remains among citizens and may need further clarification. Very few members of the police force go beyond the burnt out, which can be seen from the number of complaints.

For example, from 1 August to 8 November, 95,943 checks were carried out on citizens and premises and 2,438 complaints of non-use of masks (indoors and outdoors) and 724 complaints of premises emerged.

Chief's initiative for trafficking after 23:00

Regarding the decree banning traffic from 23:00 to 05:00, the Chief of Police also took the initiative in exceptional cases.

According to the body's spokesman, Christos Andreou, this is the case where a citizen (parent, relative, friend) has to pick someone up from the airport. In this case, he will not be fined, as long as he proves that he "broke" the curfew for a specific reason.