Finnish authorities will allow some public events to be attended by more than 500 people, even though restrictions on gatherings imposed due to the coronavirus are still in force.
On Thursday, the Government has made further specifications to its policy on organising major outdoor events as of 1 July.
According to the Minister of Science and Culture, Hanna Kosonen, the number of attendees at public events in enclosed outdoor spaces is still restricted to 500 until 31 July. However, the permitted number of attendees may be exceeded in certain cases. This could allow, for example, to celebrate some sporting events and festivals.
The government plan states that for outdoor events where there are several sections or demarcated areas intended for audiences, a total audience of more than 500 persons may be permitted starting on 1 July with special separation arrangements.
This requires that the event attendees can be placed in their own seating areas or viewing sections, each of which has a maximum capacity of 500 persons. Safety must be ensured in each viewing section or area by limiting the number of visitors in order to ensure safe distances and by providing hygiene instructions in line with the restrictions that entered into force on 1 June.
With buffer zones
Government stressed that a clear buffer zone must be arranged between each viewing section in use. Each section must have its own access routes, services (including any food and beverage services and sanitary facilities) and event staff.
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health will issue a circular to the regional authorities on implementing the specifications referred to above in accordance with the Communicable Diseases Act.
The Government will decide next week on the policies for public events held in indoor and outdoor spaces, and for organising public events in general, as of 1 August. The decisions are based on the epidemiological situation and the effects of lifting the restrictions.
