The BVI has been placed under multiple curfews since March of this year when COVID-19 first began to spread in the community. The current curfew runs from 12 midnight to 5 am daily and will be in place until October 22.

Speaking with 284 Media last week, Premier Fahie said the curfews will stop once the authorities are convinced that the public is able to diligently practice health and safety measures.

“We want to get there before December 1st … so we have to police ourselves and do not have anyone else police us. Once we police ourselves with the social measures as individuals and businesses, we will see the curfew lifted altogether off the territory,” Premier Fahie stated, adding that the recent spike in cases happened because persons did not take the health guidelines seriously.

Though describing the recent spike in COVID-19 cases was tough, Premier Fahie said it had a positive effect as it has forced people to take safety measures seriously.

“This spike was very difficult for us … [But], now more persons and businesses understand that in order for us to have our economy moving to the next level in order for us to live and combat COVID-19, we have to stay steadfast in purpose and diligent in action by adhering to all the social protocols,” Premier Fahie explained.

The territory-wide curfews which limit the public’s movement mainly at night, have badly affected bars and nightclubs which thrive on nightlife.

Last week, the government gave approval for these businesses to reopen until 12 midnight provided that they get certification from Environment Health Officials.

However, sections of the media last week reported that some bars had reopened without approval and had to be ordered closed by the health officials.