Eighteen groups in Malatya, including political parties, unions, foundations and associations, issued a written statement today on what need to be done to counter the coronavirus outbreak.

In the statement the signatories demanded a curfew to be implemented as well a halt to all production activities other than essential ones. In addition, the organisations asked for paid leave for workers and laborers, compensating income losses of self-employed and tradesmen, and providing social and cash benefits to poor families without income.

The statement, which also asked for free access to health, electricity, water, natural gas and the Internet, emphasized that layoff should be prohibited.

"All necessary precautions should be taken for the health of the health workers," the declaration said.

RISK IN PRISONS

"The risk posed by the coronavirus outbreak to prisoners should be on the agenda as soon as possible," said the organisations asking for the immediate release of prisoners. 

The statement was signed by SES, Belediye Iş, BTS, BES, Eğitim Sen, Eğitim İş, Eşit Yurtlıklık Der, İHD, ADD, ÇGD, CHP, EMEP, ESP, HDP, Left Party, TMMOB, PSKAD, Zeynel Abidin Foundation.