Namely, the current measures expire on January 31. As Index.hr has learned, although no final decisions were made, a consensus was reached at Sunday’s meeting on a slight easing of measures on February 1. Most concessions will be in the segment of sports and recreation, but the opening of restaurant and cafe terraces is still on the table.
Prospective opening of gyms and concessions when it comes to sports training and competitions
Gyms will likely open on Monday, February 1, but that is not yet entirely certain. The opening of gyms is considered because there is no solid scientific evidence that they are places where the infection is spreading. It should be reminded that gyms were not in the last draft for closing in late November when stricter measures were introduced but were eventually included in the list.
On the same date, the circle of those who are allowed to train, compete and play sports, in general, could expand, at least when it comes to outdoor sports. However, as Index learned, it might also be possible for children to train indoors. According to the current measures in force until January 31, training and competitions are allowed only for athletes of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd category.
It is most likely that from February 1, cafes will be allowed to sell coffee outside, with the potential opening of terraces
When it comes to cafes, it is most likely that from February 1, the sale of coffee and similar beverages outside will be allowed. Recall, the fierce reactions of caterers came precisely to the decision according to which cafes cannot sell coffee outside, but kiosks, gas stations, and bakeries can. Restaurants that are also closed to guests are allowed at least delivery, while cafes have been completely closed for the past two months.
As Index finds out, the opening of restaurant and cafe terraces from February 1 is still in play. The competent Ministry and other ministries whose sectors could be covered by the concession are expected to conduct an additional evaluation according to which a final decision should be made. If a decision is made to open the terraces, work would likely be limited, probably until 10 pm.
Upper elementary students return to school
Upper elementary school students would return to schools in February instead of the online classes they now attend.
They also discussed lifting the ban on private gatherings of people from more than two households at Sunday’s meeting, but Index revealed that it is not realistic.
Index also learned that as things stand now, the permitted numbers of people at various types of gatherings should remain as they are now.
Final decisions will be made in the middle of the week, most likely on Wednesday.
Why aren’t more measures eased?
The Headquarters is concerned about epidemiological pictures in some European countries, and especially news about new strains. If the import of a new strain into Croatia was confirmed, it could mean that the concessions would not be as discussed at Sunday’s meeting. A few days ago, it became clear that vaccine delivery at this stage would be significantly lower than expected. The Headquarters also believes that closed spaces continue to pose the most significant risk of spreading the infection.
It is precisely these three factors that are cited as the key reasons why there will be no stronger easing of measures from February 1, primarily when it comes to opening cafes and restaurants for guests.
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