Control measures on arrival at airports in the Region include the use of an ‘app’ which can monitor tourists while on Madeiran soil. But due to data protection laws, this application will be applied on a voluntary basis.
Addressing journalists while visiting Caniço, the President of Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque explained that they” are following the Icelandic, the only country currently prepared and in a position to move forward. By using the app we will provide an opening for tourism with security conditions, by being able to monitor and identify any infectious potentials who will either have undertaken a PCR test in their home country or submitted to a mandatory one here in Madeira.” He went on to say that “the Canaries and Algarve have not yet re-opened. They are still deciding. In fact, there is no destination that is open. In terms of islands, Iceland is best prepared to move forward to open.
Concluding his speech, he added “in addition to all the natural attractions, we are considered a region without Covid”. But, emphasised Miguel Albuquerque, “it is essential to ensure that the resumption of tourism, includes the security of the Madeirans, Porto-Santenses, and those who work in the tourist infrastructure. To this end, we are currently setting up all the logistics, with infrastructure at the airports in Madeira and Porto Santo, to ensure that tourists to the islands, either present a negative PCR test or are tested at the airport. Furthermore, all arrivals will undergo a mandatory body temperature check and complete a survey.”
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com