PM Holness Announces Extension Of COVID-19 Restrictions

PM Holness announces extension: With COVID-19 cases still on the rise, the Government of Jamaica has extended the current restrictions for another 2 weeks. Prime Minister Andrew Holness says the quicker the country is able to bring the surge under control, the quicker the economy can be restored. This he says, depends on how well citizens comply. 

New COVID-19 cases in Jamaica continue on an upward trend, with a total of 5, 270 cases recorded as of Monday, September 21. Deaths from the virus are also on the rise, with a total of 75 now recorded. As a result, the nightly islandwide curfew which runs from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am each day will remain in effect, until October 7, 2020. 

Prime Minister Andrew Holness reiterates that curfews help to control unnecessary or non-productive movements. He says the following measures are to continue until October 6:

Persons 70 years and older, must continue to stay at home. They may leave once per day for the necessities of life. 

The limit for public gatherings remains at 15. Prime Minister Holness says the number is likely to be reduced or the rule of 15 may continue depending on how the Government assesses the situation. 

The ban on funerals and parties continues. Burials are allowed with 15 persons, of which no more than 10 can be mourners. Also, normal church services operating in compliance with the protocols may continue.

The Prime Minister strongly urges private and public sector businesses to allow employees to work from home where possible. The requirements for entry into the country under the controlled re-entry program, remain the same for tourists and citizens. 

CVM LIVE‘s Aladden Love has this story: