Museums are now able to open their doors to the public, with physical distancing and proper hygiene measures in place. However, Bell Island’s main tourism attraction will remain closed for the year.

President of the Museum Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, Teresita McCarthy, says since many of the province’s museums do not open until late June or early July, some remain in the decision-making phase.

The No. 2 Mine Tour and Museum on Bell Island has made the tough decision to not open this year.

McCarthy describes the situation as a “Catch-22.” They are sad to stay closed but worried about being open. She says it is extremely sad especially because museums walk hand-in-hand and shoulder-to-shoulder with the tourism industry.

McCarthy says for many small communities, the museum is the tourist attraction and if it doesn’t open, it is a sad scenario for everyone.