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COVID-19 restrictions: Malta to extend restaurant and bar opening times till 2am
The Maltese health authorities have announced the easing of more COVID-19 restrictions and with low cases and one of the most successful vaccination rollouts in Europe, it seems as though Malta is slowly but surely aiming for pre-COVID-19 normality.
Which restrictions are being lifted?
As of Monday 28 June, restaurants, snack bars, bars and clubs can open their establishments until 2am, if their license allows for it.
There’s more: sea transport will also be permitted to operate at 65% capacity and water parks such as Splash and Fun, can re-open. Restrictions in reference to fitness classes and contact sport for children under the age of 17 will also be lifted on the same day, allowing for both activities to be held under protocols determined by the health authorities.
As of Monday, said the health ministry, visiting hours at Mater Dei hospital will increase, with visitors being allowed to visit their loved ones between 11:30am and 1pm, as well as between 3pm and 8pm.
Can we take off our masks?
Not just yet. As of Wednesday 1 July, those who are fully vaccinated can take of their masks in open, public places. As it stands, though, only TWO fully vaccinated people can be together in public, without their masks. Therefore, masks will have to be worn in groups of three or more, regardless of whether they are all vaccinated or not.
The ministry added that children under the age of 12 can remain without masks, so long as they are accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.
Masks must still be worn inside establishments, shops and the like. The easing of the measure only applies to outdoor, public spaces. With regards to the other restrictions, such as gatherings of no more than six in public and six households inside, remain in force.
What do you think of the eased restrictions?
