But Rutte said he expects the current downward trends to continue and the easing of the lockdown to go ahead. The second step in the government's reopening road map also means that swimming pools, gyms and other indoor sports venues can reopen, with strict conditions on visitor numbers, and sex workers can resume their work. Neighboring Belgium announced earlier Tuesday that it too is relaxing its lockdown as of next month. Dutch bars and cafes reopened their outdoor terraces last month, under strict conditions, after a six-month lockdown. Last month also saw huge crowds gather in Dutch cities, flouting social distancing rules, to celebrate the national King's Day holiday.

Source: ABC News May 11, 2021 18:44 UTC