The removal of most Covid-19 health restrictions – including the end of SafeKey rules in most cases – was yesterday welcomed by the Opposition One Bermuda Alliance.

Michael Dunkley, the shadow health minister, said: “We are pleased that it appears it will only be used potentially as a requirement in a small group exemption.

He added that the end of SafeKey, effective from today, was a ”welcome relief for restaurants, gyms, charter boats, members clubs and other establishments“.

Mr Dunkley also backed a decision to ease Covid-19 border restrictions from next month.

He said: “The OBA has called for the elimination or streamlining of the travel authorisation application form and for antigen testing to be used.

Mr Dunkley added that his party also backed the decision that the “only testing a vaccinated resident or visitor will require to enter Bermuda is an antigen test no more than three days prior to travel”.

He said the move made the island more competitive as a tourism destination.

The Government also announced that the cap on large groups, including weddings and funerals, was raised from 20 people to 100.

SafeKey is no longer mandatory for restaurants, members' clubs, bars, gyms and island boats.

A seven-day pass for children aged 5 to 11 who tested clear for the coronavirus was also dropped for venues.

But restaurants, bars and clubs will stay at seated service only, with tables limited to ten people and spaced 6ft apart.

The wearing of masks will remain in force, particularly indoors, after April 1.

Mr Dunkley asked for an update on requirement for schoolchildren to be masked in the classroom.

He said that “perhaps masking in the classroom can be a personal choice for parents”.

Mr Dunkley added: “Now that we have learnt much about Covid it is important to rebuild lives, our community and the economy.”