COVID-19: J’can government impose tighter restrictions | All non-essential work to be done from home

As of today there are 12 confirmed cases in the country since the first case was declared on March 10.

In addition to new measures announced thereafter limiting the movement of people and discouraging social gatherings, Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the imposition of further restriction.

At a press conference called this evening at Jamaica House, Prime Minister Holness said:

• • All non-essential work for both private and public sector be done from home effective March 18
• • Hospital visitation restricted to once per day
• • Social gatherings, including funerals and weddings, in excess of 20 persons in public space are strictly prohibited
• • All bars, nightclubs are ordered closed
• • JUTC will only carry passengers seated,
• • Taxi operators are required to transport one less passenger than they are licensed to carry
• • Markets will be open from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm

The new imposition is in effect for seven days from March 18 and does not affect “essential” services such as markets, supermarkets, pharmacies and corner shops.

The measures will be reviewed after five days.

Attorney General Marlene Malahoo-Forte said failure to comply with the new orders could see violators liable to a fine not exceeding $1 million and imprisonment of 12 months. 

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