Public Gallery Reopened in Time for Budget Presentation Tuesday, But…

The lifting of many of the COVID restrictions has paved way for another privilege that political supporters enjoyed pre-COVID era. Today the Government’s Press Office announced that one of the public galleries will be reopened, albeit with limited seating capacity when the House meets on Tuesday for the Budget Presentation. Only twenty-four members of the public will be allowed entry, provided these persons can show they are fully vaccinated and can provide valid identification cards. They are also prohibited from brining in a long list of items such as guns, explosives, knives of any kind, bottles, caps, umbrellas, pens, keys, handbags, notebooks, sunshades, cosmetics, cigarettes or lighters. Gallery visitors must also no wear sleeveless blouses, short pants or slippers. Whoever is lucky enough to get inside, on a first come, first served basis, will also be required to adhere to the six-foot physical distancing and to properly sanitize their hands and wear facemasks for the duration of their stay inside the National Assembly building.