McKenzie condemns party staged at Devon House

“The evidence of this breach is clear. It is a total violation of the rules and the police have been duly advised. This is a breach of the ban on gatherings at places of amusement, as well as a breach of the nightly curfew hours,” the minister said in a statement to the press. “Even more disturbing is the fact that this event was promoted, and has been attended by large numbers of people every Friday for a protracted period. Quite frankly, this does not look good. I am surprised that the management of Devon House is permitting this event to happen, and I am insisting on a formal explanation within 48 hours. I am also insisting that no events can be contemplated or allowed by Devon House or any entity anywhere, until whenever the Disaster Risk Management Order is amended to allow them.

“The protocols and restrictions issued under the order apply to the whole society. There are no uptown rules or downtown rules. The violators in this matter will be held to account.”

Amid the pandemic which has infected more than 700 and contributed to the death of 10 Jamaicans on the island, the government has been gradully lifting restrictions in an effort to kick-start a floundering economy. However, tight restrictions remain in place on certain events, particularly entertainment. And even though the government is currently contemplating lifting the lid on entertainment events, a final decision is yet to be made. Until such a decision is made, however, McKenzie is urging Jamaicans to adhere to the rules. 

“Large numbers of Jamaicans are obeying the rules, and trying to protect themselves and their families. We will not allow selfish people to endanger the government’s efforts to manage COVID-19, and to put our health personnel under greater pressure, just because they want to party. I trust that this will serve as a clear warning to all, that strong action will be taken if people insist on violating the order,” said the minister.

“I also want to thank the concerned citizens who brought this to my attention, and I want to encourage all our civic-minded Jamaicans to continue to report and reveal all violations they witness.”