Entertainment events to resume on July 1, curfew eased

 

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced protocols for reopening the entertainment industry on July 1 but has urged caution, warning that a spike in COVID-19 cases over the summer could impact the reopening of schools.

 

Speaking in the House of Representatives on Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Holness said Jamaica's economic recovery was unlikely without the reopening of the entertainment sector, which is estimated to be an $84 billion industry.

 

He said events would be categorised as small or large and would have different protocols.

 

Small events are those with fewer than 100 people, such as round robins, outdoor concerts and corporate mixers.

 

"The organisers of small events will be allowed to make applications for permits as they would normally do through their local authorities and would work with them to ensure that the protocols are in place for a safe event. The municipal corporations have agreed to reduce the cost of applying for permits and licences by 50 per cent," the Prime Minister announced. 

 

Mr. Holness said small events being held indoors must not host more than 60 per cent of the capacity of the venue.

 

He said public sector events would be limited to 50 people.

 

Promoters of large events with more than 100 people will be required to make an application to the Ministry of Entertainment and Culture.

 

Mr. Holness revealed that the government will allow large events to be held at some of its facilities rent-free and "organisers would be required to cover only the operating costs such as utilities and security costs."

 

These venues include the National Stadium, Trelawny multi-purpose stadium, Fort Rocky, Fort Charles, Seville, and Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre.