MONTREAL — Quebec says it will permit indoor and outdoor public gatherings of up to 250 people across the province beginning Aug. 3.
The directive announced Thursday doesn't include private gatherings in places such as homes and chalets, where the 10-person limit remains in force.
By increasing the limit to 250 people from 50, the government is hoping to give a revenue boost to venues hosting sports and cultural events, which have been hit hard by the pandemic-induced shutdowns.
The new directive applies to all entertainment venues across Quebec, including concert halls, theatres and movie houses.
It also applies to places of worship, rented halls and amateur sport training and competitions.
Quebecers will still be required to keep a two-metre distance from one another and, when that's not possible, to wear a mask.
"With this announcement, we are allowing the Quebec population to appreciate in greater numbers the many cultural spaces that delight the young and old," Culture Minister Nathalie Roy said in a news release.
Anyone participating in an indoor event will need to wear a mask when they are moving around. They will be allowed to remove their mask when sitting down to watch a show or sporting event.
Richard Masse, a medical adviser with the Health Department, said Quebecers have largely been following the province's health directives when it comes to indoor gatherings.
"Our analysis of the situation makes it possible to increase the number of people who can be accommodated in these places," Masse said.
Quebec reported 142 new COVID-19 cases Thursday, but no additional deaths.
The total number of deaths in the province is 5,662, and total cases rose to 58,080. Health authorities said hospitalizations dropped by 14 to 221. Of those, 14 patients were in intensive care, a reduction of two.
Health officials completed 14,725 tests July 21, the last day for which data is available. At least 50,505 people have recovered from the disease.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 23, 2020.
The Canadian Press
