Though , new measures could be added soon, affecting the service industry and get-togethers. Measures currently in force were supposed to remain in place until 28 February 2022.

Tuesday’s meeting comes amid a fifth wave of infections that is already The health ministry on Monday reported 1,116 new cases diagnosed over the weekend. Five people died between Friday and Sunday, with 71 people now hospitalised for complications caused by a coronavirus infection, including 18 in intensive care.

In addition, omicron, the new variant first identified by South African scientists, has found its way to Luxembourg. in the grand duchy on 13 December 2021. The virus, which is more infectious than the delta variant, poses a particular threat as its repercussions so far remain unknown. 

“It means nothing good for our numbers if we have to react during the ‘holidays’ when we voted in a law just last Thursday,” said member of parliament Sven Clément (Pirate Party) in , revealing that the presidents of the groups represented in the Chamber of Deputies have been convened for a meeting on Wednesday morning. 

The recent measures introducing 3G (vaccinated, recovered, tested) rules for the workplace and 2G (vaccinated, recovered) rules for leisure activities and the service industry caused many to protest over the past weekends,

Prime minister Xavier Bettel (DP) and health minister Paulette Lenert (LSAP) will hold a joint press conference on Wednesday morning to present the outcome of Tuesday’s cabinet meeting.

The government last year decided to close non-essential shops between Christmas and new year. There was already a curfew in place at the time, homes could only welcome two visitors from the same household, and restaurants were closed except for take-out.