Prime Minister Robert Abela has reportedly confirmed that bars will remain shut past Monday’s initial reopening date as rules will be extended to curb the spread of the virus.

Speaking today, Abela ruled out a total lockdown, imposing a curfew and the closure of schools. However, he did say that measures will be introduced targeting the carnival weekend that is right around the corner. The measures will be announced soon but no further details were given.

Bars and clubs were first closed down in October when Malta experienced a spike. They were meant to reopen on 1^st December but the legal notice was extended until end January. Abela said that bars “will remain closed” past 1^st February but the government will be announcing aid packages to help such owners.