Bernard Gonzalez, prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes, was in Nice to observe the strengthening of controls. Objective: to enforce the curfew in order to avoid a third lockdown.

Following announcements by Prime Minister Jean Castex regarding the evolution of Covid-19, controls are being strengthened in the Alpes-Maritimes. The department is one of the most affected in France. Thus, the Alpes-Maritimes has a positivity rate of 9.1% and an incidence rate of 447 per 100,000 inhabitants. The situation remains particularly concerning. To combat the spread of the virus, controls are set to become increasingly strict. Businesses are subject to specific rules, and the curfew remains in effect from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. across the entire territory.

After visiting the Nice-Etoile shopping center, Bernard Gonzalez, the prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes, went to the Promenade des Anglais, where police checks were taking place to enforce the curfew. “It is important to implement controls to demonstrate the determination of public authorities to enforce the established rules,” acknowledges Bernard Gonzalez, who is particularly determined to overcome this pandemic.

“The days and hours to come are very important”

The past few weeks have shown a significant reflection on the part of the State. Wishing to await the effects of the curfew on the evolution of the pandemic, the President of the Republic Emmanuel Macron is hesitant to declare a third lockdown. Bernard Gonzalez wants to avoid this possibility at all costs: “We must do everything to try to avoid it. If we do nothing, we will see more drastic measures. The days and hours to come are very important.”

The prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes understands the delicate situation of the department. “I know it’s difficult, but we must follow the rules to shift the trend. I am counting on everyone’s mobilization to succeed,” says Bernard Gonzalez. Controls are expected to be reinforced in the coming days, a necessity in an attempt to stop the spread of Covid-19 within the department.