From Thursday in the Netherlands people can again experience culture in theaters, museums, cinemas and music halls and have fun again in zoos and amusement parks. The Dutch can also go swimming again, pick out books in the library and take a gamble in casinos.
–
Sex workers are also allowed to return to work. In addition, three people may be received at home instead of two at home, and outside, a maximum of four people may be together instead of two. Weddings and funerals are allowed slightly more guests, a maximum of thirty.
Starting Thursday
Prime Minister Mark Rutte confirmed on Tuesday that these measures, which came into effect on November 4, will end on Wednesday, November 18 at midnight. According to Rutte, the relaxation does mean that the previously set restrictions for these public occasions will remain in place, such as keeping your distance, a maximum group size and booking in advance.
According to the Dutch government, the two-week package was necessary to give an extra boost to the measures that were instituted in mid-October. In this way, the number of new infections would decrease faster, so that the overburdened care would also receive more air sooner.
Stay in effect
All measures that took effect on October 14 will remain in effect for the time being. Food and beverage outlets will therefore remain closed, but may offer take-away meals. Shops close by 8 PM, with the exception of supermarkets and other grocery stores, and no alcohol may be sold between 8 PM and 7 AM. Team sports are also only allowed at a distance of 1.5 meters and with a maximum of four participants.
In addition, the urgent advice remains to work from home, unless there really is no other option, the call remains for everyone over 13 years to wear a mask in public transport and public indoor spaces. The government is still working on a masking obligation. This is being finalized, and the obligation is expected to take effect on December 1.
“The more we test, the more freedom”
The Dutch Minister of Health Hugo de Jonge calls on the Dutch to live a healthy life, in order to build up a better resistance. That way people are better protected against the corona virus. He said during the press conference that it would help if people walk for half an hour every day. “Healthy living improves your resistance and makes you feel better,” said De Jonge, referring to an advice from doctors.
The coming months will see more and more testing for the corona virus, also with the help of Defense and the business community. “With more tests we are more on the heels of the virus. The more we test, the more freedom we can afford. It all helps and provides perspective, ”says De Jonge.
– .
