Further ease in restrictions

The downward trend in positive Covid-19 cases in this island has led to another ease in restrictions.

In an address yesterday evening, Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley announced while the country could do better in further reducing its positivity rate, it is in a far better position than earlier this month. Therefore, its

gradual reopening will continue with measures being put in place for a three-week period as opposed to the usual two.

The new protocols – subject to Parliament’s approval – will run from April 27 to May 17.

During this period, there will be a reduction in curfew hours during the weekend. The new curfew will run from 12 a.m. and end at 5 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Meanwhile, the remaining days will stay without curfew.

In addition, cinemas and the Drive-In are allowed to open with a 25-person limit at the concession area.

With respect to churches, communion can now take place and baptisms are permitted to resume with masks and face shields worn by those present. She also urged that wherever possible, baptisms take place outside.

The PM reminded no picnics, parties, excursions, karaoke, fetes or limes will be allowed on National Heroes Day and May Day, but said persons can still head to the beach or parks on those days.

“You can go to restaurants, you can go to cook shops, but you cannot cannot be involved in karaoke or feting,” she stressed.

Mottley also urged residents to continue their volcanic ash clean up efforts on these days.

Regarding sports, she stated all sporting activities can resume for practice purposes only.

“Sporting bodies must submit the intended protocols to the Covid Monitoring Unit for the pre-approval of the unit. Having said that, we are not yet in a position to allow basketball, netball, wrestling, rugby or horse racing for different reasons. Yes, football and cricket can continue, but for practice and not for tournaments.

Spectators will not be allowed to watch any sporting activities, however, essential support personnel may be there. Regarding squash, practice means only one person allowed at the court at any given time. Boxing and martial arts practice can continue as long as there are non-contact bouts,” she added.

She stated that nightclubs and those purporting to be night-clubs will not be allowed to operate. (JMB)