Less than 12 hours before Phase 4 in the exit strategy comes into effect, there is now finally also a legal framework. After hours of discussions, the various governments were finally able to find an agreement and the Ministerial Decree (MB) has just been published in the Belgian Official Gazette.
–
Most decisions are confirmations of what the National Security Council discussed last week, but a number of issues have been debated for a long time. There were still ambiguities about the organization of local events, receptions and fairs, but they have now all been eliminated.
According to the Ministerial Decree, signed by Minister of Security and Home Affairs Pieter De Crem (CD&V), from August 1, 100 guests are welcome at a wedding party, or as the MB puts it: “seated receptions and banquets, with a private character, which are provided by a professional catering / catering company”. Until July 31, there are still 50. A civil wedding may be attended by 200 people and from August even by 400 people present.
Even one opening dance will soon be possible again: the obligation to remain seated at the table does not apply to such meetings. Although the government still counts on your common sense: dancing or going out in the hall in polonaise is not part of that.
Also flea markets and fairgrounds can be organized again if the municipality agrees. It is essential that there is sufficient space: a maximum of “1 visitor per 1.5 running meters at the stall” and that the market and fairground vendors wear a mask. Food and drink may also be offered for consumption on the spot.
Also about discotheques and dance halls there is now a final decision: they remain irrevocably closed, just like public jacuzzis, steam cabins and hammams.
As of August 1, it is also up to the mayor to decide whether incumbent events can continue with more people than what is imposed in certain circumstances. This concerns, for example, sports competitions, events or performances. They must, however, obtain permission from a competent minister and a virologist. That the latter must also have his say in the decision led to discussion in the Wetstraat.
– .
