Tuesday, May 5

Yesterday evening Sanna Marin, the World’s Youngest Prime Minister™, announced that Finland would begin lifting coronavirus restrictions from today. She said that

The borrowing of books and other material from libraries will be immediately permitted.

As of 14 May 2020, the statutory restrictions on border traffic will be lifted in cross-border traffic across the Schengen internal borders by allowing employment or commission-related commuting and other essential traffic.

Outdoor recreational facilities will be opened as of 14 May, subject to the restrictions on gatherings.

The gradual opening of restaurants will begin on 1 June 2020, provided that this is supported by the effects of lifting the current restrictions and by the subsequent general epidemiological assessment.

Sports competitions and series can be resumed with special arrangements on 1 June.

The following public indoor premises will be opened in a gradual and controlled manner as of 1 June: national and municipal museums, theatres, the National Opera, cultural venues, libraries, mobile libraries, services for customers and researchers at the National Archives, hobby and leisure centres, swimming pools and other sports facilities, youth centres, clubs, organisations’ meeting rooms, day care services for the elderly, rehabilitative work facilities and workshops.

Large public events with more than 500 people are prohibited until 31 July 2020 in line with the Government’s decision.

For the time being, recreational travel abroad is not recommended, and the travel advice issued by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs will be extended accordingly. Finland considers it important that the lifting of the restrictions on border traffic be coordinated at the EU level.

At midday I went into the garden to celebrate. I photographed two things that have lain there for years. I can no longer remember where we got them but they still shine in the dark.

Tomorrow I might go and borrow a book.