Bye, Bye DRMA

After looming large in the lives of Jamaicans for two years, the Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA) will no longer be used to manage the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness made the announcement during his contribution to the 2022/23 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on Thursday. He said that while the Government acknowledges that the pandemic is not over "it must be main streamed into the general, normal management of public health, safety and public order".

Effective this Friday, March 18, all measures under the legislation will be withdrawn.

"It is no longer sustainable to manage the pandemic as a special project by Executive Order, through the Disaster Risk Management Act. However, risks still remain and continued vigilance is necessary, especially for vulnerable populations. For this reason, some measures will be retained and incorporated into Regulations issued under the Public Health Act instead," Holness said.

Mask-wearing in enclosed spaces to which the public has access, for example, supermarkets, banks, and tax collectorates will be retained until April 15. The prime minister, however, said that mask-wearing will not be mandated but will be recommended in establishments that serve food, liquor or other drink for consumption within the premises.

In addition, maintaining physical distance will be highly recommended but no longer mandated.

"The general infection prevention and control protocols applicable to workplaces will also be highly recommended but not mandated. Curfews will come to an end, but we still recommend that you use your discretion, staying out late only if it is a must and ensuring your safety and security," the prime minister said.