But, no lockdown right now. While the curfew does remain in effect, the economy is being re-started, and businesses allowed to re-open. Yes, it won’t be the same. Strict social distancing has to observed - and everyone has to wear a mask inside those businesses - and this time it’s a requirement by law, not an option.
The Prime Minister listed the businesses that will be able to open on Saturday, after the labour day holiday:
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow - Prime Minister
"We therefore seize the opportunity to restart internal to the maximum degree. We, therefore, seize the opportunity to restart, to the maximum degree possible in the circumstances, internal business and economic activity. Accordingly, under the new SI, all government departments and all statutory bodies will reopen on Monday, May 4th. We have, naturally, added to the list of approved private sector businesses also permitted to operate; and those add-ons can actually begin on Saturday, May 2nd - after the Labour Day holiday - if they normally employ Saturday opening hours. Lawyers, accountants, real estate brokers, are some examples of private sector, professional service providers that are now on the approved list. There is, as well, a category compendiously described as local manufacturers, under which our carpenters, building contractors, plumbers, electricians, and so on, will also be able to operate. The wholesalers and retailers generally are being freed up, and even call centers can reopen, particularly for training purposes. Belize call center services are increasingly in demand as a result of the pandemic, and the centers can take on well over a thousand new hires if training is allowed. Very, very significant for the economy. Hotels will also now reopen, if they so choose, to cater to a Belizean clientele. Their restaurants will be limited, though, to providing room service and take-out meals. As a result of all this, the general restriction on movement is being lifted to the extent that it will now permit the public to attend at the various government and private businesses for such services as they require, in addition to the purchase of supplies and essential needs. And in one more concession, beauty salons and barbershops can also resume operations, although, only by appointment basis, dealing with one customer at a time is being lifted by appointment basis dealing with one customer at a time."
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