From next Wednesday masks in public places will be mandatory, Prime Minister Mia Mottley decreed in a COVID-19 address on Tuesday.
Although noting that Barbadians have been for the most part following the health advice for mask usage, Mottley said the time has come to make it law for the safety of all.
She said: “We have already required since the beginning of this year, the mandatory wearing of masks in public buildings, and public transport.
“We are going to require from the 3rd of February in our directives, that the wearing of masks in public places shall be mandatory, unless in the case of individuals who are either alone, or in the means of exercise, or who around them, have either a medical excuse, or who are in the midst of speaking.
“So that we know, and we heard from [public health leaders] Dr George, Dr Best and Dr Forde how having and wearing masks reduces our chances significantly.”
Mottley also noted that businesses have been following the mask and safety advice, so far sparing themselves any large outbreaks of COVID-19.
She added: “I want to refer to the fact that many of the businesses that shut, believing that because one person has COVID in it, were able to ensure that they were able to re-open in quick order because in many instances, protocols were followed.
“Once protocols are followed, we know that you have at least an 80 per cent chance of fighting off that invisible enemy COVID. So I am asking us that if we are walking on the streets and other people are in close proximity, wear your mask.”
Those who cannot wear their mask because of medical reasons should seek a written excuse from their medical doctor, the PM advised. (SB)
