Prime Minister Robert Abela said that no mass activities will be allowed except for weddings and similar occasions.

The decision came at the end of a meeting with the social partners. MAM said the directives it issued for its members will remain in place because it is not satisfied.

TVM reports that health superintendent Charmaine Gauci, who attended the meeting, announced that the wearing of masks will become obligatory on buses, in shops, the airport and the Gozo Channel ferries. A €50 fine will be imposed on offenders.

She said that there will be more tests for carers who work in residential homes for the elderly and restrictions will be imposed on visitors, with a Perspex separating them from the residents.

She also announced the reintroduction of limits to visiting hours at Mater Dei Centre.

The increase in the number of cases and needs for swab tests will lead to the opening of two more swab centres, Gauci said.

She added that there will be limits to the number of people who can attend events that will be allowed.