The coronavirus has meant it's been a very difficult last couple months for all of us, and my heart particularly goes out to the family and friends of those who have lost loved ones to this insidious virus.
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I know that the actions we've taken to fight the virus have also caused heartache to a great many people, especially those who have lost their jobs, or been forced to close their businesses.
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And I'll be frank, the temporary removal of such basic freedoms as the ability to see your friends, go out for a meal or even take a walk in one of our national parks sits uneasily with me.
But these actions were unfortunately necessary for us to get on top of the virus.
We need to understand, the virus isn't going to go away overnight; it is something we are going to have to live with for many months to come.
But the good news is, because of the actions you have all taken, and because of the sacrifices made by so many, we are now in a position where we can start to slowly return to normality. However it remains so important that we all continue to follow the rules, wash our hands regularly and maintain social distancing.
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Already, I have announced the four safeguards - more testing, better tracing, rapid response, and COVIDSafe plans for organisations, that will underpin this process.
Yesterday, I released our Roadmap to Recovery, a clear plan which outlines the journey we will take to gradually rebuild our Tasmania.
Our pathway back will be gradual, it will be careful, and it will always be based upon the health advice we have at that time.
We will keep marching to the beat of our own drum. Gradually getting back to our normal way of life, while keeping the virus supressed is going to be the hardest part of this fight.
But, as I have said all along, it is a fight we are getting on top of, and I am confident, we will win.
So my message to all Tasmanians is, thank you for all you have done. But, it's not over yet.
We need to work together to recover gradually and responsibly, and I'm confident we will get our way of life back and we will rebuild a stronger Tasmania.
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