N.S. Premier Says Bars, Restaurants Can Now Operate At 100 Percent Capacity
HALIFAX – Premier Stephen McNeil announced Friday that Nova Scotia’s economy will continue to open up, as more restrictions on public gatherings were lifted. Starting on July 3, a business that uses an “event planner” can host an outdoor gathering of 250 people and indoor gatherings of 200. Physical distancing rules and other health mandates still apply.
Private events like backyard gatherings, however, are still limited to 50 people with social distancing rules, or a 10-person bubble without it. McNeil, at today’s press conference, explained that these restrictions are meant to protect private citizens from carrying too much responsibility.
“This is to protect you; if you are hosting a family event in your community It shouldn’t be on you as an individual to monitor people’s behaviours. Business and event planners get paid to do that, that is why they have a higher gathering limit,” said McNeil.
Restaurants and liquor establishments also got a big break today, as McNeil announced that they can now operate at 100 percent capacity, with physical distancing rules. They can also stay open until midnight.
Private campgrounds were also told they can run at full capacity and public swimming pools can now reopen.
Nova Scotia did receive some bad news on the tourism front, however. Due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis in the United States, McNeil announced the Yarmouth ferry service will not operate this season.
In the same press conference, Dr. Robert Strang warned Nova Scotians that, just because rules are being eased, it doesn’t mean people can stop being cautious.
“It’s important for a range of reasons to allow the economy and society to reopen. But as we do this, we have to understand that it does increase the risk related to Covid-19,” said Strang.
“The tools we have used to flatten the curve in the first wave, are the same tools we need to continue to apply to minimize any future appearance of Covid-19. And there will be a reappearance of Covid-19.”