Muscat: The Supreme Committee to tackle coronavirus on Wednesday announced a number of decisions, which will be in force till December 31, to ease the impact of Covid-19 on the private sector. It expressed concern over people entering government and private premises without taking vaccines.
Employers can now renew the expired work permits of expats who are outside the country and also exempt from fines until December 31.
The committee also decided to exempt fines to those who leave the country permanently or those who are looking to renew the work permits.
The SC waived fines of businesses for licenses which are expired or due to expire between June 1 and December 31 provided these are renewed.
It urged banks and financing firms to reschedule loans of borrowers, notably small and medium enterprises which hold of Riyada business cards, without charging fees.
Small and medium enterprises can register in the Isnad system of the Tender Board without fees. Small and medium enterprises were also exempted from land usufruct (development) fees. They can repay outstanding dues later. SMEs, which are holders of Riyada cards, can also defer payment of premiums and rentals on properties owned by government departments and authorities.
The committee received evidence that many individuals do not abide by the precautionary measures. It expressed concern over people entering government establishments, shops, malls and restaurants as well as venues hosting group activities without vaccination.
The committee expressed its regret over many violations, including holding of large social gatherings without social distancing and not wearing face masks. The committee hoped efforts will be taken to punish offenders and individuals. It warned shutting down of any establishments, which breach the precautionary measures.
The committee also reviewed reports on the epidemiological situation, locally and globally. It noted a general decline in hospitalised cases of Covid-19, ICU admissions and deaths.
— ONA
