Gov’t considers reopening bars

Bar operators could know this week whether they will be allowed to reopen their establishments that were ordered closed as part of the country's response to the COVID-19 crisis.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness yesterday announced that bars, nightclubs and other places of amusement would remain closed until May 31. He, however, said that his administration is studying the impact of the lockdown measures on bars.

"We are very sympathetic to that situation," Holness said, adding that there are an estimated 10,000 bars operating in the island. "In a few days, we should be able to say to the public exactly what measures we can take."

The prime minister signalled that if the decision is taken to lift the ban, operators will have to conform to measures imposed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.