Last Updated on May 18, 2020, 8:16 AM AST by Anthony Morris
It was announced in a statement issued by the Barbados Government Information Service yesterday that the curfew which has been imposed to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been extended until May 31, 2020.
The new curfew goes into effect from midnight, May 17 until midnight May 31, 2020, between the hours of 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. every day.
Under the curfew, only essential workers are allowed to leave their homes between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. The statement reminded that essential workers should carry proof of their employment at all times.
On May 14, Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley announced that some businesses will be allowed to reopen from May 18 under Phase 3 of Government’s plan.
These businesses will operate under protocols outlined by the Government.
They include cottage industries, barbershops, beauty salons, florists, restaurants for drive-through, delivery and pre-ordered services and appliance stores for sale, delivery and installation of appliances.
Shopping and banking will still be governed by the Alphabet system but customers can shop at any time during the day.
Also from May 18, beach access will be allowed from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and 6 a.m to 9 a.m. daily.
Churches will be allowed to have services with up to 20 people.
Private businesses and offices shall only continue their operations where the employees can work exclusively from their homes.
The original curfew was imposed from March 28 until April 14, 2020, and has been extended a number of times since then.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
