Event attendee limits scrapped from today

Monday 12 April 2021

There will be no limit to the number of people who can attend weddings and other organised events from today, the Government has announced.

Entering the next stage of the island's ‘reconnection roadmap’, the Government has also lifted the legal requirement for people to keep 2m apart – although it remains recommended.

Other key changes are that 20 people can now attend informal gatherings in people’s homes or public places such as parks and beaches, there is no limit on participants or spectators at events such as sport or theatre events, and working from home is no longer the default position.

New guidance has been issued for businesses and staff returning to their places of work. This includes keeping workers 2m apart where practical and avoiding congestion at pinch-points such as lifts, doors and corridors.

Pictured: It is recommended to wear masks during meetings.

It is also recommended to wear masks during meetings.

Masks must also still be worn in indoor public places, and contact details provided in some venues.

Health Minister Deputy Richard Renouf said: “These changes all come with new public health guidance to support a safe transition. While the 2m physical distancing is no longer required by law, people should still make every effort to maintain distance from those they don’t live with, wherever possible. 

“Maintaining 2m helps keep people safe and reduces the risk of having to self-isolate because you came into close contact with someone who has covid-19. This change from law to guidance is about a gradual movement to less stringent measures, it does not mean the risk has gone. 

“As people gradually return to work, we really want to encourage eligible islanders to take part in the workforce testing programme. This not only will protect you, but also your team members and workplace. 

“I’m really pleased that people can once again gather, without limit, to enjoy controlled events such as weddings, theatre performances and sporting events, which I’m sure many people can look forward to this summer. 

“Masks remain mandatory within public, indoor spaces and there are no changes to this requirement. I really hope islanders can enjoy meeting again and respect the subtle but important measures that remain, to keep us all safe.”

While weddings are allowed, dancing is still prohibited, save the first-dance. Bands and DJs are allowed, although their music must only be background music. Guests should also wear masks when not eating or drinking.

The lifting of the 2m law also applies venues serving food, meaning that tables don’t have to spaced out as much as before; however, the guidance is still to maintain this distance if possible. The 10-people-per-table limit also comes to an end.

The Government said that workforce tests can be booked by phoning 0800 735 5566.