45 days, that's how long Belize has gone without a positive test for
COVID-19, and, in response, tomorrow the Prime Minister will announce a
further relaxing of public health measures designed to contain the
virus.
According to sources, first off, these include bringing back Boledo.
That's right, the numbers game that Belizeans love so dearly has been
suspended since April 10th. Now, it is scheduled to return on Monday,
June first. But it won't be business as usual. 7News has learnt that
social distancing measures will be required for purchasing tickets.
Boledo franchise operator, Brads had no comment today.
And there's also good news for street vendors, from those who sell
tacos and hot dogs, to the ones who offer freshly cut fruit. After more
than two months with no business, they will now be allowed back on the
street, but, again, with social distance requirements and hand washing
protocols in effect.
And, there's also good news for gamblers, Casinos will be allowed to
open, but with social distancing in effect, and one more requirement -
no liquor can be served at these gambling establishments.
And, indoor restaurants will be allowed to re-open, but with social
distance requirements between tables.
And there will be a little more time to have a weekend dinner out -
because on Friday' and Saturday's, the curfew will be extended from
8:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Next, permitted social groupings will be expanded from 10, to 40.
And, fishers will also get some relief, because recreational fishing
will now be permitted.
And while those are all key elements for social living - tourism
interests are pressuring for the airport to open. Well, best
information says government is CONSIDERING opening the international
airport in early July. But, again, any visitor would have to have a
negative COVID test taken with the past 48 hours - which, critics say,
is both unrealistic and ineffective. And while that still has to be
worked out, American Airlines has its first flights to Belize booked
for July 7th, so let's see where that goes.
Worryingly, there is still no plan for re-opening schools yet, but
there will be a national virtual graduation on June 21st.
Again, these - and other relaxed measures - are to be announced by the
Prime Minister tomorrow, and will take effect on Monday.
And while an apparently leaked message with somewhat similar
information has been making the rounds on WhatsApp - that isn't our
source, and a message from the Office of the Prime Minister warns,
quote, "the notes being circulated via social media and other channels
purportedly from the National Oversight Committee are not official.
The public is advised to disregard the information as it is inaccurate
and misleading. The official summary of the committee meeting and new
measures will be presented by the Prime Minister via a virtual press
conference on Friday, May 29
th
, at 10:00 a.m. This will be followed by an explanation of the
amendments to the statutory instrument by the Attorney General on
Saturday, May 30
th
, at 3:00 p.m. on the Ask the Experts webcast." End quote.