At the press conference today, they underscored that the latest easing of restrictions can take place in view of the continued control and prevention of COVID-19 in the Islands, thanks in great part to the people following and heeding the Government instituted restrictions.

The changes come in three phases on 21 June, 5 July and 19 July. The opening of the borders is still on track for 1 September 2020. However, this decision will be determined by world conditions in relation to COVID-19 closer to that time.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. John Lee reported:

- Of 385 test results (233 from Doctors Hospital and 153 from the HSA), all were negative.
- Screening on Cayman Brac is now complete with 51% of the population covered. Screening of frontline workers will continue.
- Of the total 193 positives so far, 2 are symptomatic, 58 asymptomatic, 1 hospitalised who is in stable condition and ambulatory, and 132 recovered.
- 145 people are in government isolation facilities and 253 are in self isolation at their homes.
- Seven attended the 'flu clinic yesterday and three out of 11 calls to the 'flu hotline were 'flu related.
- The new drug determined to be highly effective in treating persons with severe COVID-19 is a cheap steroid that is in common use already for other medical conditions. This drug is available locally.
- No clusters causing infections have been detected in the CI community; hence the move to Level 2 Suppression.

Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriquez said:

HSA plans to start immunoglobulin testing later this week or for sure from next week.
Premier, Hon. Alden McLaughlin said:

Government is pleased to announce that the Cayman Islands enters Level 2 Suppression from Sunday, 21 June 2020.

- The CI has won this round with COVID-19 but the next challenge for Government to grapple with is how to reopen the borders safely for the people of the Cayman Islands.
- So as of 21 June, there will be further softening of the restrictions - some starting that day, some more starting 5 July and further more starting 19 July.
- Staycations are permitted after 21 June.
- Preschools can open from 5 July.
- Neither children nor teachers are required to be tested before going back to school. School openings remain as previously announced after the regular summer holidays.
- The Competent Authority known as Curfew Time and its services will cease on 21 June. No one will be required to obtain exemption letters going forward from that date.

His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Martyn Roper said:

- Repatriation flight to Chennai, India has been confirmed leaving Grand Cayman on Friday, 3 July 2020 by British Airways to London and onwards by Qatar Airways. All details for booking will be posted online shortly and there is no need to call the Governor's Office.
- Today's significant announcement of easing of restrictions and moving to Level 2 Suppression from Sunday are very heartening and everyone who helped achieve this is thanked.
- The closure of the borders remains the big challenge and needs to be addressed next, after monitoring the world situation closely.
- The UK's scientific lead in new drugs, vaccines and ongoing work on rapid tests, are very heartening.
- Two flights via BA to transport parents and students going off to colleges in the UK will take place in the first week and the last week of August.
- Deadline for the part-time reservists posts with the Cayman Islands Regiment is 21 June and already 250 applications have been received. The Governor encouraged more Caymanians to apply.

Minister for Health, Hon. John Seymour said:

Walking tracks, except at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex, are open. Any residual problems with opening them are being addressed quickly.
See sidebar for more from the Minister.