The Minister gave that indication during a live broadcast on Monday, July 5.

He said following an emergency meeting, Cabinet decided that all private and public schools including preschools, child care centres, summer programmes and extra-curricular activities are mandated to cease in person activities with effect from Tuesday 6th July 2021 for 14 days in the first instance and subject to a review by the cabinet after seven days provided that all external and regional examinations may continue to be administered at public and private schools with the approval of the Ministry of Education, in consultation with the Chief Environmental Health Officer and the Chief Medical Officer.

He said Cabinet also decided that “hairdressers, barbers, gyms, bars, clubs and entertainment establishments be closed” for the next 14 days for the first instance as well.

Limited Numbers

In the meantime, the Health Minister said it was agreed that the number of persons in gatherings be limited.

“Decided that except with the approval of the Minister of Health and Social Development, all businesses and workplaces be required to restrict numbers 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 July 6, 2021, for a period of 14 days in the first instance,” he informed.

He said as for social gatherings, including faith-based organizations, weddings and funerals should be limited to 25 persons at a time for a period of 14 days and subject to a review by cabinet after seven days.

It was also agreed by Cabinet that except with the approval of the Minister of Health and Social Development, all ferries are required to restrict numbers to a limit of up to 65 persons at a time subject to adequate social distancing protocols being maintained also for 14 days in the first instance.

For in-house dining, he said it is now limited to one person per 36 square feet to a maximum occupancy of 25 persons, all-inclusive of staff and patrons for the next two weeks.

Restricted Visits

Hon. Malone said effective today, visits to Her Majesty’s Prison and other residential homes are now restricted.

“Cabinet advised that persons visit to and from Her Majesty’s Prison in Balsam Ghut are restricted mandatorily effective 6th July 2021, for a period of 14 days in the first instance, with the exception of emergency situations determined by the facility to necessitate a visit subject to the contrary advice that we may have.”

He said all facilities that serve as residential establishments such as the Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly, the Virgin Gorda Elderly Home, Rainbow Children’s Home, Safe Haven Transitional Centre, private residential facilities will also have limited visits in and out for the next two weeks.