Public warned against hosting secret house parties

It appears that people have been secretly hosting events such as birthday parties and 'drink-ups' from their homes. In a recent interview with THE WEEKEND STAR, Attorney General Marlene Malahoo Forte said she has been made aware of the 'home parties' situation.

Malahoo Forte expressed disappointment with the persons who, in times of crisis, continue to take risks that threaten the health of themselves and others.

"It has come to my understanding that persons have resorted to hosting parties in their homes in circumstances which are creating risks of transmission of COVID-19," she said.

"It is unfortunate that in this time of crisis, anyone would choose to deliberately and irresponsibly exercise his or her freedom in a way that puts others at risk, which could lead to death."

The Government has imposed several measures to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus on the island. These include the closure of bars, nightclubs and other places of entertainment, and the withdrawal of entertainment permits. It is also illegal for more than 10 persons to gather in any space.

Actor Garfield 'Bad Boy Trevor' Reid was recently slapped with charges in relation to violating the Disaster Risk Management Act. Persons who are found in breach of the act could face fines of up to $1 million and imprisonment for up to one year.

HOLD OFF

Popular event promoter, Ian 'Container Boss' Miles, is encouraging Jamaicans to hold off on hosting entertainment events that require physical gathering.

"Me never know people would actually be so stupid that they want to keep parties and drink-ups now. It is definitely not the time. I'm a promoter and anything me a pree right now affi be an online thing, so me can't understand why people can't just listen and do the right thing," he said.

He said that various entities, including banks, only allow persons to come in 'two by two'.

"So why people woulda want to have more get-together inna dem house now, I don't know. If those who are big businesses can, why we as the small man can't jus hear?" he asked. "Me honestly think some people just selfish. Me strongly condemn the practice and even the mere thought of it. We only affi do all this fi a time, but how long depends on us. If we listen, we can go back to keeping our events without restrictions."