Schools face lockdown - Gov’t bans entertainment events … braces for rise in corona cases

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has hinted at the possibility of schools being closed to avoid the spreading of the deadly COVID-19.

In a press briefing yesterday, Holness announced that amid fears of the spread of the virus, Cabinet has approved protocols for the closure of schools, however, those protocols still need some further consultations.

This disclosure came after the declaration that a second case of COVID-19 had been confirmed.

He, however, noted that one concern is the need for parents to make preparations for the care of their children, during what would have been school hours.

Holness said that if the Government was to abruptly close schools, some parents would be in a quandary as to what provisions they would make for the home care of their children.

"So we're signalling and we're hoping that our parents will start to make the necessary preparations and be able to respond, should it become necessary," he said.

Upcoming examinations

Another consideration hindering schools from closing their doors, according to Holness, is children with upcoming examinations, such as the Primary Exit Profile.

He said that plans have been put in place to ensure that the training and preparation for those children are not disturbed.

He disclosed that over a period of 24 hours, the minister overseeing the Ministry of Education, Karl Samuda, will have consultations with teachers and the regional staff and the central staff of the ministry.

Some tertiary institutions have already signalled that they would reduce person-to-person contact for tutelage, a decision the prime minister has endorsed.

The Mandeville-based Northern Caribbean University announced on Tuesday it would be offering more classes online in response to coronavirus concerns.

Holness also announced that no permits for gatherings that require them will be granted over the next 14 days. Those that had already been granted for the same time period have been revoked.

Meanwhile, the first patient to test positive for the coronavirus in Jamaica, travelled from London on March 4, on the British Airways flight BA2263.

As such, Holness has requested all passengers who were on said flight to call1- 888-ONE LOVE (876-663 -5683).