The Dutch government is re-issuing Coronavirus regulations
Translated by Thomas Ansell
On Friday evening, Dutch PM Mark Rutte gave a Coronavirus press conference due to a large rise in infections figures since almost all regulations were scrapped at the end of June.
As reported by the NOS, the new regulations will be in force until ‘at least’ August 13, and include:
- All bars, restaurants, and pubs must close at midnight
- Nightclubs and discotheques closed (unless operating with reserved seating; like a bar/restaurant)
- The ‘Testen voor Toegang’ scheme has been paused in the hospitality sector due to issues with its use
- Large-scale events (like festivals) may only take place for a maximum of 24-hours, and people must have a socially-distanced seat
‘Testen voor Toegang’ is the much-vaunted system that uses the CoronaCheck App to show a ‘unique’ QR code demonstrating either being fully vaccinated, or having had a negative test result from an official testing centre. Unfortunately, the scheme has come under fire for being easily avoided: with circumstantial reports of people sharing negative test results, or clubs not checking each guest.
The scheme will now only be used for cultural and sporting events: for example attending a football match, concert, or convention. Previously people could gain access with a ‘Testen voor Toegang’ test from up to 40 hours old, now the maximum test result age is 24 hours old.
Unfortunately, the Dutch government decided not to re-instate the facemask wearing requirement: facemasks are (according to multiple medical bodies such as the WHO) the cheapest, most effective, and easiest to use method to protect against spreading the Coronavirus.
Photo by Anastasiia Chepinska on Unsplash
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