The members of the SACF report changes in their schedule and operation during the pandemic
The exceptional situation marked by the coronavirus outbreak has led companies and institutions around the world to modify or paralyse their activities. Spain is one of the most affected countries in Europe and is leaving a state of alert and the population confinement. All the population has get involved in the reduction of the global pandemic under the slogans #YoMeQuedoEnCasa (#IStayAtHome) and #EsteVirusLoParamosUnidos (#WeSstopThisVirusTogether).
The SACF members had join this initiative through their websites and social media. They are informing about their activities, both at their headquarters in Spain and in the countries in which they are present, including Australia.
Navantia informed of “exceptional measures for a limited time” with the objective the objective of preserving the workers, partners and client’s health. The presence in their facilities is limited to workers associated with essential activities; and has stimulated the home office in those activities that allow it. Their social media is updated in the different donations and initiatives they are developing.
Acciona has developed several cooperation initiatives with different public institutions and social agents to contribute to the fight against the pandemic. In addition to ensuring the health, safety and business continuity, the company is carrying out an intensive campaign of social cooperation. In addition, a financial aid program has been released for its workers worldwide in case they have to stay hospitalized for more than five days because of COVID-19, until April 1, 2021.
The Autonomous University of Madrid informed about the suspension of "all non-essential face-to-face activities that can be carried out remotely" as well as "ceremonies, events and cultural and sportive activities". In addition, the university offers an updated Guide of FAQ for non-presential education.
The financial institutions like CaixBank have been included by the government as an essential public service. For this reason, and always minimizing unnecessary trips, their offices will be opening from 8.30 to 14.30, with a maximum capacity of one client being attended and another waiting (the rest must remain outside, respecting the arrival order).
The Spanish Chamber of Commerce and the regional network of Chambers have increased their information and attention channels to the companies, in special to SMEs. The priority is the need to limit as far as possible the effects of the crisis on companies and to ensure the viability of the maximum jobs in the future.
Regarding to the cultural entities, Casa Asia announced the temporary suspension of all its public and training activities. The Instituto Cervantes is adapting the agenda of its centres around the world to the changing situation and the decisions of the respective governments. The Institute has enabled this web page to update about the status of all its international centres. The Cervantes Institute in Sydney at this time, 18th march, is one of the few with no significant changes.
The ICEX maintains a permanent contact with the different economic and commercial offices of Spain abroad and with the regional network. Updating continuously about the international events where the ICEX was going to attend, in Spain and outside our borders.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation is providing recommendations for Spanish citizens abroad and vice versa.
From the Spain-Australia Council Foundation we want to express all our support and solidarity to those affected by the virus and their families and to the professional sectors that are on the front line of the fight against the pandemic. We will continue working to restore the regular activity of the Foundation whenever possible. Meanwhile, we will be informing through this webs site and in our social networks about the latest news in the bilateral relations between Spain and Australia.
