Almost all the COVID-19 restrictions in Barbados are being removed from next Wednesday, July 1st including the weekend curfew as the Barbados government announces this country is now largely COVID-free with no new local cases for more than a month and all cases released from isolation.

Cabinet has also declared the country ready to reopen to commercial air traffic and announced the resumption of tourism activity and social events with social distancing reduced to one meter.

Additionally, all daycare centres are reopening sporting events can resume with spectators,  the crowd limit for public and entertainment events is increased from 250 to 500 from July 1st and from July 15th events in excess of 500 people may be allowed. The time limit for church services has also been removed.

Health Minister Lt. Col. Jeffrey Bostic thanked the public for their role in helping Barbados contain the virus, stressing that cooperation was critical.

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley praised the public for their cooperation which she said made possible,  Barbados’ success in managing the pandemic.

Stressing the thousands of people in this country that depend on tourism, she declared Barbados ready to resume commercial air traffic.  Ms. Mottley says that Barbados cannot afford to continue to keep its borders closed indefinitely.

There will also now be a new COVID-19 monitoring committee.

Attorney General Dale  Marshall outlined the ease in the measures – COVID directive No. 8.

Meantime, Minister of Tourism Kerrie Symmonds outlined the protocols for those traveling to Barbados.

There are additional protocols at the Barbados end as well.