Special passes required to enter Regions 7, 8, 9 

The new PPP/C Government is working assiduously to help curb the spread of the novel coronavirus in the hinterland regions, particularly Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine. To this end, special measures have been instituted in these areas and will take effect from August 16, and will last until to August 31, 2020.

Unless authorised by the Ministry of Health, with permission of the subject Minister, Hon. Dr. Frank Anthony, no one will be permitted to travel in or out of the region during this period. Transportation operators in these specified regions must wear personal protective gear at all times while operating their vehicles. Also, the vehicle will only be allowed to transport half of the amount of its capacity.

Residents in the regions have been reminded that gatherings of more than five are not allowed during this period. Mining operations are permitted to continue but will be under strict compliance with the measures specified for these regions.

Wherever the Ministry of Health deems it necessary, persons can be tested for coronavirus. They can be quarantined, isolated, or treated in facilities provided by the Ministry of Health.  Anyone testing positive must be placed in a controlled isolation area approved by the Ministry. In Regions Seven, Eight and Nine, the Joint Services has been tasked with coordinating, mobilising and securing quarantine and isolation sites, materials and goods of these sites, and screening and testing checkpoints.

The Joint Services will also be responsible for providing escorts for mobile teams and ensuring security at entry and exit points, including the lading areas on each region.  Government buildings and modes of transportation are to be sanitised continuously.

These measures are supported by the 6 pm to 6am curfew, which will be in place during this period.  On assuming office, the new PPP/C Government conducted a rapid assessment of the COVID pandemic and found a fragmented process that was incapable of administering the necessary social and economic measures to the country. Therefore, the decision was taken to implement a multi-sectoral, multi-faceted approach to aggressively address the issue. The Government will be engaging each sector to develop clear protocols and guidelines based on epidemiological evidence to ensure citizens are kept safe. (DPI)