Earlier today, Minister Grapperhaus (Justice and Security) and the CIO sat together again to discuss the increasing number of infections in the Netherlands and the question of whether church services with many people are desirable. After the consultation, CIO called on churches to take their responsibility when it comes to fighting the corona virus.
Chairman of the Zeeland Safety Region Jan Lonink understands that this is difficult, but: “We are in a situation where everyone is required to be extra vigilant. This is also necessary at church meetings, however much I understand that these restrictions are also difficult and difficult for many people. to be.”
‘I have to rely on willingness’
The advice is not mandatory. “I am not allowed to enforce the police in church,” Grapperhaus said earlier this week. “So I have to rely on willingness, willingness and sacrifice.” The minister said today that he will continue to talk to the churches.
What is the call?
The CIO calls on churches ‘to take their responsibility as part of Dutch society and to reduce the number of visitors, taking into account their own local situation, if possible and preferably to a maximum of 30.’ In addition, churchgoers are urged to wear face masks and to limit singing.
Lonink is pleased that consultation took place at a national level and that the CIO is disseminating the advice in unison. “We trust that, as with previous advice – this will be followed up by the churches in Zeeland on the basis of their own responsibility.”
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