Latvia proposes emergency status for eastern border region

Latvia’s Climate and Energy Ministry has submitted a draft order proposing a state of emergency in the country’s eastern border region, LSM reports. The measure would cover the health, energy supply and water management sectors and is justified by threats of an escalation in Russia’s military activities.

The draft says drones and other unidentified objects are being detected increasingly often in Latvian airspace or near the state border. They could pose a threat to public safety, human health and the operation of critical infrastructure, the explanatory report says.

The proposed emergency framework would ensure the uninterrupted operation of services and companies while permanent regulations are being prepared. It would apply in the Aluksne, Augsdaugava, Balvi, Daugavpils, Kraslava, Livani, Ludza, Preili and Rezekne municipalities, as well as in the cities of Daugavpils and Rezekne, until December 1 this year.

The draft proposes assigning the Defence Ministry responsibility for coordinating institutions during the emergency. The Health Ministry would be the co-responsible institution for the health sector, while the Climate and Energy Ministry would oversee the energy supply and water management sectors.

Temporary exceptions to working-hours and overtime rules, as well as additional compensation and employee protection measures, are proposed for the energy supply and water management sectors. In healthcare, the draft would allow more flexible work arrangements, including continuing medical treatment in safe premises and, under certain conditions, issuing sick-leave certificates remotely.

The costs of implementing the order would be covered by companies or the state budget, with funds for unforeseen circumstances used if necessary. Employees of energy supply and water management companies responsible for maintaining services, preventing accidents and restoring infrastructure could be required to work overtime. Their total working time, including normal hours, could not exceed 60 hours per week.