Lukas proposes losing capacity restrictions for indoor culture events

At Thursday's cabinet meeting, Minister of Culture Tõnis Lukas (Isamaa) proposed that starting with the fall season, the 50 percent capacity restriction for indoor events and culture establishments could be removed.
If the government's scientific council approves Lukas' proposal, ticket sales for performances, cinemas and concerts would only be limited by how many seats are available at the particular establishment, ETV's daily affairs show "Aktuaalne kaamera" reported on Thursday.
Lukas explained that the virus is spreading in other institutions than theaters and concert halls.
The culture minister added: "Government turned to the scientific council for their assessment regarding this solution. I think culture organizers who have ensured very safe conditions for all fans - I do not mean night clubs but actual culture: performances, cinema, concerts - should be trusted. So the season could begin with full capacities."
Lukas said restrictions regarding maximum number of people would still remain in place, with 2,000 people allowed at outdoor events and 1,500 indoors.
Early-September will see WRC Rally Estonia and Ironman Tallinn triathlon take place in Estonia. Minister of Social Affairs Tanel Kiik (Center) said these events must be hosted in a way that ensures the safety of spectators and people coming to Estonia from other countries.
Kiik said: "We can see that in two thirds of Europe, the infection rate over the last two weeks has exceeded 16 for 100,000 people. This would refer to a self-isolation requirement or another alternative method, whether be a testing requirement or other different trust methods."
The government decided to exempt athletes traveling to Estonia from movement restrictions for high-level competitions, such as the afromentioned WRC Rally Estonia and Ironman Tallinn, if their testing shows negative results. The Health Board will make a decision on final spectator capacity.
Lukas added that additional restrictions might also be set, including a limit on alcohol sales.
The culture minister said: "Currently it is being planned as if spectators will be present, in very controlled conditions and it certainly does not mean that spectators are doing God knows what and increasing risk of infection. The situation will be under control."
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Editor: Kristjan Kallaste