[Opinion column written by MP Neville Tyrrell]
We understand that there has been much public debate about Covid testing, quarantine, back to school and travel regulations.
There are people in our population that have pre-existing conditions making them vulnerable to contracting Covid and being hospitalized.
So, with them in mind, we have consistently erred on the side of caution regarding testing and isolation.
We understand that there is a balance that has to be struck. Therefore, last week, we made some changes to the testing and quarantine policies so as to strike a delicate balance, in order to allow us all to live with Covid.
The following requirements will continue to be in effect as of Friday January 21, 2022 for two weeks:
- Masks must be worn indoors and, also, outdoors when you are within 6 feet of another person.
- For restaurants, bars and clubs, tables will be limited to a maximum of 10 people and must be spaced 6ft apart. SafeKey will continue to be required for these indoor settings.
- Churches will be open; however, all members must wear masks – the officiants, congregation and choirs.
- Gyms can remain open – but SafeKey must continue to be used, and physical distancing must be observed.
- Personal care services – SafeKey is recommended for those services that require masks to be removed.
- To automatically renew your SafeKey, individuals whose second dose is older than 6 months must have a booster. The implementation of this policy has been extended and will be effective February 15, 2022.
- Curfew will expire as of 5:00 am on 20 January 2022.
- Maximum group sizes will remain at 20 people.
We appreciate the incredible hard work that MDL and so many of our front line workers do to keep Bermudians safe. Thank you.
As we move into this new phase, we must continue to work together, to see Bermuda through this crisis, and rebuild our economy for the betterment of all.
– MP Neville Tyrrell, Constituency 26 – Warwick South Central
