Don’t Put Away Masks Just Yet: Some Establishments Still Requiring Them

The new Statutory Instrument lifts the requirement to wear face masks, much to the delight of the masses. But while the public might be celebrating this S.I. relaxation, don’t pack your masks away yet. Marion Ali reports on why you might still need them.

Marion Ali, Reporting

The business community and much of the public have welcomed the relaxation on COVID-19 regulations, as new infections have declined considerably since the year started. The COVID figures today informed there were nine new confirmed cases, and two new deaths. But while the Minister of Health has decided to lift the ban on face masks, there are still some business establishments that require everyone who enter their premises to mask up.

Atlantic Bank issued this circular informing the public that while the government has decided to lift the mask mandate, that financial institution requires everyone who enters its banks countrywide to wear a mask.

And then there’s the K.H.M.H., which in the height of the pandemic in Belize, became overwhelmed and had to retrofit other parts of the hospital to accommodate patients needing treatment. They sent out this memo as well, requiring everyone to wear a mask.

And according to the Attorney General, Magali Marin-Young, it’s all legal. She informed us today that quote “private establishments may still require mask wearing as a matter of policy. This would be perfectly legal as private property owners and establishments may set their own rules and policies” unquote. So while you may not be required to wear a mask in public spaces anymore, you might still want to take one with you so that you are able to enter the entities and businesses that require you to wear a mask.

Marion Ali for News Five.