7 News Belize

New State of Emergency Regs Announced Tomorrow
posted (May 28, 2020)

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.

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