DRMA Orders Withdrawn
By: , March 17, 2022
Photo: Donald De La Haye
Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, speaking during his contribution to the 2022/23 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on March 17.The Full Story
Effective, March 18, 2022, the Order and all the measures under the Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA) will be withdrawn.
Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, made the announcement during his contribution to the 2022/23 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on March 17.
Mr. Holness noted that while the Government acknowledges that the pandemic is not over “it must be mainstreamed into the general, normal management of public health, safety and public order”.
“It is no longer sustainable to manage the pandemic as a special project by Executive Order, through the Disaster Risk Management Act. However, risks still remain and continued vigilance is necessary, especially for vulnerable populations. For this reason, some measures will be retained and incorporated into Regulations issued under the Public Health Act instead,” he said.
The measures include the requirement for persons who test positive to isolate, the requirement for laboratories to protect the privacy and identity of persons testing for the coronavirus (COVID-19), as well as handwashing and hand sanitisation measures.
Mask-wearing in enclosed spaces to which the public has access, for example, supermarkets, banks, and tax collectorates will be retained until April 15, 2022.
Mr. Holness noted, however, that mask-wearing will not be mandated but will be recommended in establishments that serve food, liquor or other drink for consumption within the premises.
Regarding travel, the Prime Minister pointed out that “we have decided to retain the requirement to obtain a pre-test within three days prior to travel, until April 15, 2022 and will then reassess with a view to its removal.” Mr. Holness said.
In addition, maintaining physical distance will be highly recommended but no longer mandated.
“The general infection prevention and control protocols applicable to workplaces will also be highly recommended but not mandated.
Curfews will come to an end, but we still recommend that you use your discretion, staying out late only if it is a must and ensuring your safety and security,” the Prime Minister said.