Prime Minister Robert Abela announced new measures aimed at combating the surge in the number of Covid-19 cases.
From Saturday 17th October, bars and clubs must close at 11pm, facemasks must be worn outdoors in all public places at all times, at work, on public transport, taxis and Gozo ferries.
Anyone not wearing a mask will be fined although the government has allowed one week’s grace before fines are introduced.
Wearing a facemask is now mandatory for all primary school children.
Prime Minister Abela was flanked by Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne, Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri and Public Health Superintendent Charmaine Gauci for the press conference at Castille.
Deputy Prime Minister Fearne said that a new rapid testing kit that only takes 30 minutes will be available from the end of October.
