Norwegians got some encouraging news as they headed into the three-day May 1st holiday weekend. From May 7th, they’ll be able to gather at events of up to 50 people at a public venue, as long as they can keep a meter’s distance from others.
Health Minister Bent Høie said at the government’s afternoon press briefing on Thursday that the distance rule will be halved, from two meters to one for those who don’t share the same household address. “Now we’re opening up a bit, but under clear terms aimed at maintaining control (of the spread of the Corona virus),” Høie said. “Events can be held if it’s possible to remain at least one meter from other people with whom you’re not living.”
The eased rule will apply both indoors and outdoors, and will allow cinemas, concert venues and even the opera to start reopening, if on a small scale. “Events lacking a responsible organizer won’t be allowed,” Høie said, adding that it will still be prohibited to hold events at public venues for more than 50 people at least until September 1, when events involving up to 500 people may be allowed. That ended up cancelling the summer festival season and most all outdoor summer concerts.
Høie stressed that the government still recommends gatherings of no more than five people, with a meter between everyone. The limit of 50 at special events may be expanded to 200 from June 15, but only if the spread of infection remains under control.
NewsInEnglish.no staff
