Consultative Committee decides on rules for outdoor terraces

Today, the federal government and the federated entities convened the Consultative Committee to affirm previous decisions.

End of ‘Easter pause’ confirmed (outside bubble, shops and close-contact professions)

The Consultative Committee confirms that the Easter pause will end on 26 April. As a result, people will be able to meet outdoors in groups of 10 from Monday onwards.

From Monday, shops will also be allowed to receive customers without an appointment. People are no longer required to shop alone but may be accompanied by one other member of the household.

Non-medical close-contact professions, including hairdressers and beauticians, will reopen subject to tightened protocols.

Terraces

The conditions for opening terraces are as follows:

  • A maximum of 4 people at one table (or people from the same household);
  • At least 1.5 metres between table groups;
  • Only table seating;
  • Face masks compulsory for staff and non-seated customers;
  • It is prohibited to order directly from the bar;
  • Customers may occasionally and briefly enter indoor areas to use the sanitary facilities, to reach the terrace or to pay;
  • Opening hours are limited from 8am till 10pm.

Events

The Consultative Committee also confirmed the previous decisions relating to the culture and events sectors as from May. This includes major events such as cultural and other performances, competitions and trade fairs.

As such, outdoor activities for up to 50 people are allowed during the month of May. In addition, a series of indoor test events will be organised.

During the month of June, outdoor activities are possible for up to 200 people. Indoors, the maximum room occupancy is 75% of the COVID Infrastructure Risk Model (CIRM), also with a maximum of 200 people. Both indoor and outdoor events must always take place with face masks and with respect for social distancing. At indoor events, people must sit down at all times.

Youth and club activities

The Consultative Committee confirms that, as from 8 May, activities in an organised context (e.g. sports club or association) can take place outdoors with up to 25 people of all ages, but without an audience and without overnight stays. Children up to the age of 12 are allowed inside with a maximum of 10 people.

From 25 June onwards, indoor and outdoor activities will be possible in an organised context with a maximum of 50 people. Furthermore, overnight stays will be permitted for youth camps from that date. Fairs and non-professional bric-a-brac and flea markets will also be able to take place from June onwards.

Importance of vaccination and personal responsibility

The gradual reopening of the economy and the resumption of social life is taking place at the pace of the vaccination campaign. The Consultative Committee therefore calls on everyone to get vaccinated. When you receive an invitation, please accept it immediately. This is not just a ticket to freedom for yourself, but for all of us.

Loosening the rules is done step by step. More freedom also implies more individual responsibility. By keeping ourselves safe in the coming days and weeks, we will be able to look forward to a great summer.

 

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