WILLEMSTAD - The curfew on Curaçao applies as of January 4 from 1 am to 4:30 am In addition, a maximum of 75 visitors may gather at outdoor events. Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas announced this during a press conference on Monday.

The infections on the island are rising considerably, but extra measures from the government have so far been delayed. The curfew was previously from 3:00 am to 4:30 am. "Bringing the curfew forward is not a preference, but it must be done," Pisas announces. From January 4, the curfew will be in effect at 1:00 am. Restaurants must close at midnight. Food trucks are allowed to open from 6 pm.

At low-risk events that take place in a closed space, a maximum of fifty people may be received. For outdoor events, a maximum number of 75 visitors applies. "We should strive to organize as much as possible in the open air," concludes Pisas. In the catering industry, service is only allowed at the table and a maximum of four people may sit at a table.

According to the prime minister, there are many people who are pretending that there is no pandemic going on. He emphasizes the importance of the basic rules such as keeping distance and wearing a face mask. "We need to act more responsibly and become aware of the gravity of the situation," Pisas concluded.