Lunchtime News Wednesday 26th May 2021

News 

Protecting people’s privacy when using covid app - France is working to address fears over protecting people’s privacy when linking the covid “health pass”, to the government’s contact-tracing smartphone app.  The health passes are to be hosted on TousAntiCovid, a voluntary app that will soon be expanded to also track coronavirus cases in restaurants, bars and gyms.

Both the passes and contact tracing will take effect from 9th June, when France further relaxes its coronavirus restrictions. Digital Affairs Minister Cedric O has warned of sanctions against “unauthorised professionals” who illegally ask to see the passes, which are meant for gatherings of 1,000 people or more – and only under certain circumstances.

France’s Pasteur Institute is confident covid infections will remain under control - Meanwhile researchers at France’s Pasteur Institute have said that they are confident covid infections will remain under control in France until at least the autumn. The comments come as Europe eases travel restrictions and France prepares to further relax measure on June 9th. The Institute had previously warned against France reopening too soon, but due to a steady drop in the number of cases it has since put the risk of a fourth virus wave at almost zero.

In other news 

Tax declarations -In the Alpes-Maritimes, you have until midnight tonight to declare your taxes online. In the Var, the deadline is June 8th. Beyond these dates, you will be exposed to penalties.

Artistic director of SBM Jean-René Palacio has died at the age of 67 - Jean-René Palacio, artistic director of the SBM in Monaco and Jazz in Juan, has died at the age of 67. For two decades, Palacio programmed all the biggest names in music from James Brown to Diana Ross creating the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival in 2005.

Blood donations - The Prefect of the Var has called on people to donate blood, saying that stocks are running low, especially in blood types O and B. To make an appointment to donate blood see the website https://mon-rdv-dondesang.efs.sante.fr/

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