Kingston, 21 March 2020 – The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has released the following statement:

Minister’s Statement

“Our government’s decision to close our air and sea ports to incoming people traffic as of tonight is a necessary measure to help contain the spread of COVID-19.

This decision has several implications, including for members of our entertainment community who are overseas. I have been in contact with several of them and some are scheduled to arrive today before the ports close.

I advise those who are unable to get flights before the measures take effect to remain where they are and stay in touch with my Ministry for any assistance they may require.

I also remind members of the entertainment community who will arrive today, and those who have recently come back to Jamaica that they are required to give full disclosure to immigration officers and self-quarantine for 14 days. This is a non-negotiable requirement to protect all of us; and we will use enforcement measures if necessary.

Our government has announced the largest fiscal stimulus package in our country’s history to deal with the effects of COVID-19. It is important that members of the entertainment community and the larger creative sectors benefit from this. So I urge you to use this time to formalise your businesses and be ready to benefit from the measures introduced by government.

We can all help to contain COVID-19 by practising social distancing and washing our hands regularly with soap and water. Please keep safe!"

END