- 16 MAR 2020
Prime Minister Dr Rowley on COVID-19 – Monday 16th March 2020
Here are the key takeaways from Prime Minister Dr the Hon Keith Rowley’s opening statement at today’s media conference.
Cabinet has taken the following decisions:
From midnight tomorrow, restrict all entry into Trinidad and Tobago for the next 14 days except for nationals. Exemptions can be granted in certain circumstances (example members of CARPHA). Cargo ships will be allowed to dock but crews restricted from disembarking.
All schools and places of learning will remain closed until April 20th. Prime Minister appealed to private institutions to remain closed. Decision to be made on SEA later this week.
Avoid gatherings above 25 persons. All bars to remain closed and no in-house dining for the next 14 days. Religious bodies asked to limit gatherings. The Attorney General’s Office is on stand-by to draft legislation to enforce these restrictions if this becomes necessary.
Government to approach banks to defer loan payments and credit card interest payments for persons unable to meet their financial obligation as a result of this health crisis. The Heritage and Stabilisation Fund to be accessed to help sustain the economy.
The Prime Minister has announced the formation of a number of Cabinet Sub Committees which will focus on education, finance and the social impact of COVID-19.
