February 2021 archive photo shows two chefs in toques attending a demonstration by the hotel and restauration sector calling for an end to the forced sector shutdown Roman Gamba

February 2021 archive photo shows two chefs in toques attending a demonstration by the hotel and restauration sector calling for an end to the forced sector shutdown Roman Gamba

The decision was made by Luxembourg’s health commission on Monday after MPs raised doubts about the appropriateness and system of registration.

Initially outlined in the draft law 7795 that will enable venues to open their terraces from 6am to 6pm, the text has been removed. Parliamentary commission chair and rapporter of the bill Mars di Bartolomeo (LSAP) said such a register could be introduced in the event of a general reopening of the hospitality sector, but that the provisions would have to be specified at that time.

Restaurants, bars and cafés were forcibly closed on 26 November 2020, to curb the spread of covid-19. The reopening of terraces was tabled as a compromise, by placing limits on the number of people per table and ensuring physical distancing. However, it is contingent on infection rates remaining stable or even falling. The government is expected to assess the situation and make a decision on Wednesday.

Regardless of the question of terraces, the bill would enable an extension of the health measures in place until 25 April, as the current law expires until 2 April.

Parliamentary work in the parliamentary committee on bill 7795 is expected to conclude this Thursday. The date of the public session to debate and vote on the bill has not yet been set.

Updated 30 March at 7:45am, with correct date that bars and restaurants were shut down