The large crowds who gathered on George Street the past two weekends have led to the development of stricter public health and enforcement measures now in place.

Amended regulations under the Public Health Protection and Promotion Act require that businesses holding a liquor license operate at 50 per cent capacity provided that physical distancing is maintained.

Dance floors are prohibited, and it is the responsibility of licensees to ensure compliance.

Failure to do so may result in a summary conviction.

Health Minister John Haggie says the NLC and ServiceNL both stepped up to help create the new orders, and will enforce them.

Haggie says that’s the route government decided was the best course to take as both organizations are familiar with the industry, already do enforcement on pre-existing rules and regulations as well as have working relationships with license holders and bar owners.