The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is concerned with what appears to be a national panic emanating from the apparent indiscriminate charging of people for breaches of the Covid-19 Regulations.
During this period of renewed awareness of the local impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, as we welcome visitors and returning nationals, we believe that it would be prudent and in the best interest of all residents and visitors alike, to receive a briefing on the current applicable Covid-19 regulations, and to have a public education and awareness campaign.
This is especially so as there is a new positive case for the first time in months, and there have also been newly passed regulations which govern our conduct and health and safety protocols.
We have observed with concern, what appears to be general confusion and frustration of the public as to what laws are currently in place, and which may be enforced.
Accordingly, the steadfast and continued education, reassurance and guidance of the people and visitors of Grenada are required, in order to ensure adherence to the potentially lifesaving protocols that will keep us all safe during this global time of uncertainty.
The NDC is of the opinion that there is urgent need to allay the fears and concerns of the people and to use education rather than force to achieve the objectives of compliance with the laws and regulations, in the interest of us all.
Additionally, we recommend that the testing protocol for people arriving at our ports and airport be revisited and consideration given to immediate testing at the port of entry, employing larger teams, to minimize delays and inconvenience.
The NDC calls on the Minister for Health and the Commissioner of Police to do whatever is necessary to return the nation to calm and confidence, knowing that by adhering to the relevant protocols, we can function in this new normal environment for a safe and prosperous nation.
NDC
Agree with Melinda 100% on testing at the airport like before. I came on the August flight from the US and the process was smooth with the exception on the 10 days quarantine. I agreed to testing at the airport and if negative then be sent home with limited movement. It takes less than 24 hours for someone to contract so if visitors have a negative PCR priorr to entry and a negative covid on arrival then they should be on track. This should be across the board and applied to all countries whether regional or foreign, unless that region is Covid free. If they’re consistent across the board there should be some.control.
As for security with quarantine, it’s up to the individual as some people just feel they’re above the law and personally if they cannot abide by the rules and dont want restrictions then dont go to Grenada: wait until things change and covid go away. The government need to do better but the people have their part to do as well.
The Ministry of Health needs revert to the system used before, where passengers were given a PCR test at the airport, quarantined until results received, usually after 8 hours. If a negative test is received, the passenger can be on “limited movement”, for an additional 5 days.
The risk to the general public would therefore be reduced, and folks wouldn’t be as tempted too break quarantine.
That system was working perfectly fine, Grenada needs to rethink these new protocols, otherwise, there is a serious risk of another lockdown, and airport closure.
Sorry, it should read, “after 48 hours”.
I agree with Melinda – test on arrival or latest next day.
For tourists, this is key as the current system means they are stuck in the resort and can’t leave for 5-6 days – this is a huge negative especially for those that were planning a 1 week or less visit (i.e. most Americans). This 4 day then test rule is crippling the tourism sector and especially tour operators since if the guests cant leave the resort they can’t do any tours….
I note there is quite a few comments regarding security at quarantine facilities. Saying it is lacking, but I do not know what is expected of the places as regard to security.
I am not aware that anybody other than the RGPF, has the authority to prevent a person from leaving the quarantine facility.
So it seems, somewhat a mute point, Surely all that can be expected of any of these facilities, would be to inform the MOH and RGPF, that a person has left the facility, prior to PCR test results being returned.
They have no authority at all, that I am aware of to force these people to remain at the facility.
Another point also, it seems there is not a regulation in place to prevent anyone from visiting somebody in quarantine, so how can any security enforce that either ??
Trying to put a huge strain on people’s conscience, which in most cases is nonexistent.