The British Virgin Islands will be reinstating a night time curfew from today July 6 for the next 14 days, as bars, gyms and nightclubs face closure, following the surge of positive COVID-19 cases in the territory.
These were among some of the latest decisions made by Cabinet to help the territory battle the recent spike in cases which has now risen to 480 active cases.
Minister for Health Carvin Malone updated residents on these decisions in a late-night press conference on Monday July 5, where he said that effective today July 6, an 11pm to 5am curfew will commence for the next two weeks.
Malone also revealed that a number of establishments will have to face closure as part of the government’s decisions to reduce the spread of the virus in the territory.
“[Cabinet] decided that hair dressers, barbers, gyms, bars, clubs and entertainment establishments be closed and that restaurants for inhouse dining be limited to one person per 36 square feet to a maximum of occupancy of 25 persons. All inclusive of staff and patrons with effect from Tuesday 6th July 2021, for a period of 14 days in the first instance,” he said.
65-person capacity restriction for businesses
The health minister also said that restrictions have now been placed on the maximum capacity allowed for all businesses in the territory.
“[Cabinet] decided that except with the approval of the Minister of Health and Social Development, all businesses be required to restrict number to a limit of up to 65 persons at a time per location, subject to adequate social distancing protocols being maintained in accordance with guidance from the Chief Environmental Health Officer, with effect from Tuesday 6th July 2021 for a period of 14 days in the first instance.”
He added, “Except with the approval of the Minister of Health all ferry be required to restrict number to a limit of up to 65 persons at a time, subject to adequate social distancing protocols being maintained for a period of 14 days in the first instance.”
Faith based organisations including wedding and funerals according to the minister should now be limited to 25 persons at a time for a period of 14 days effective July 6.
He said this decision will be subject to a review by the Cabinet after 7 days.