“Should the National COVID-19 Task Force make the failure to adhere to the wearing of masks, a ticketable offense?”

The National COVID-19 Task Force continues to have discussions into the above-mentioned.

According to Chair of the National COVID-19 Task Force, Mr. Abdias Samuel, “persons have refused to not wear masks”, when out in public places.

But what do the Regulations state? The current Statutory Rules and Orders (SRO) No. 27 of 2020, Emergency Powers (COVID-19) (No. 10) Regulations, Regulation 19 (Penalty), says “A person who contravenes or fails to comply with these Regulations, shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding five thousand dollars or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or to both and to forfeiture of any goods or money, in respect of which the offence has been committed.”

Although provision is there to charge persons who contravene the Regulations, Mr. Samuel explained that a less tedious process is being discussed:

Mr. Samuel said the plans have not been finalized, as discussions continue:

Chair of the National COVID-19 Task Force, Mr. Abdias Samuel.