A night-time ban on all events at Government properties was announced on Tuesday (March 9) after police pulled the plug on a party that saw more than 100 people at the Botanical Gardens last Friday (March 5).

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works said: “The need to promote the safe use of Parks’ facilities, especially in light of the ongoing challenges of the pandemic presents the ideal opportunity to re-examine our policies.

“Therefore, effective immediately, all night-time events in government facilities, parks and beaches are cancelled until further notice.

“Day time events for gatherings larger than 25 persons will continue provided there is the written approval from the Ministry of National Security, which will include all necessary guidelines as per the Department of Health.”

The party, held in celebration of a birthday at the Horticultural Hall, was busted up by police around 11pm – no arrests were made.

“The Department of Parks issued a special permit to an individual to hold what was listed as a birthday party of fewer than 25 persons in attendance at this location, in keeping with the current public health regulations,” the spokesperson added.

“The Department has no authority to issue permits or exemptions from COVID-19 regulations.

“Applicants who wish to hold events with more than 25 persons must first apply for and receive an exemption from the Ministry of National Security.

“That approval must be submitted with the permit request for the event to the Department of Parks.”

It was also noted that no exemption certificate was submitted with the birthday party application.

“In keeping with the Department’s operational policy, a staff member opens and closes the facility, but they do not remain on-site to monitor the event.

“Day time events for gatherings larger than 25 persons will continue provided there is the written approval from the Ministry of National Security, which will include all necessary guidelines as per the Department of Health.”

The Parks Department is also “assisting the Bermuda Police Service with their enquiries”.