Minister of Health Says Even If Curfew Ends, Bars Remain Closed

So, what is next for Belizeans in the fight against COVID-19? Well, those mask mandates, social distancing, and vaccination regulations are here to stay for a while. And, if you think no curfew means nightlife returns to normal, Minister Bernard says not so fast.  

Kevin Bernard

Kevin Bernard, Minister of Health and Wellness

“If you look at it in the present moment, the curfew is from eleven o’clock and then at midnight on weekends. So, if we remove the curfew, there is no major issue or any effects that it will have at this point in time. Bars and night clubs will still remain closed for the time being. I think that is the aspect we are trying to look at. We want to ease restrictions, but at the same time we are not easing it and opening up the flood gates. We cannot afford that. We are trying to be responsible as we make this decision. While we will remove the curfew like I said, we will not be removing any major restrictions. For example, we need to see more enforcement by the police in terms of people adhering to these regulations. We need to beef up the role of the COVID enforcement officers to ensure that people in these supermarkets and all these locations are doing what they are required to do by law, ensure that they have the sanitization station, that they have their six feet markers properly placed in their shops, and that people understand that the bars and night clubs remain closed at this time. We feel that what is next for the people is that we need to continue to educate our people on the benefits of the vaccine.”