The Regional State Administrative Agency of Southern Finland has announced that in Uusimaa, to which the capital Helsinki belongs, public indoor events and other gatherings of more than 20 people will be prohibited from Saturday.
Events for more than 20 people can be arranged if the organizers ensure that all participants have a valid Covid Passport.
According to the decision, the operators in charge of commercial and public premises are obliged to organize the use of their premises in such a way that the risk of coronavirus infection can be prevented. For example, the number of customers may be limited, visitor participation may be staggered or other arrangements may be made for the use of the interior and seating area.
Regardless of the number of people, the decision applies to sports, exercise, leisure and recreation facilities, such as gyms, indoor sports facilities and public saunas. For other premises, the decision must be complied with in the case of an indoor area for a meeting of more than 10 people or an outdoor area for more than 50 people.
Covid passport option
Event organizers can avoid enforcing these restrictions if they ask all participants to present a valid Covid Passport. In this case, there is no need to limit the number of participants. The Covid Passport must be checked upon arrival at the scene. The requirement applies to all persons over the age of 16.
Other open gatherings that are not classified as organized public events must comply with the restrictions. An example of such a gathering is a demonstration that can be attended by anyone, not just invited guests or ticket holders.
On Wednesday, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health sent new guidelines to the provincial agencies recommending the introduction of stricter measures for moderately risky activities in areas where infection rates have risen.
These latest restrictions in Uusimaa are valid until 31 December.
Quelle: Die nordische Seite