THE operations of two destinations on the Soesdyke / Linden Highway have been suspended until 31 March, as the National Secretariat of the COVID-19 Task Force (NCTFS) discovered that the destinations were acting in violation of COVID-19 guidelines by promoting a ‘super spreader’ of events.
According to information provided to the Guyana Chronicle by the Director of the NCTFS, Colonel Nazrul Hussain, Splashmin Farm and Nature resorts were discovered and Aziza Akosua acting in violation of gazetted COVID-19 Emergency Measures on February 21 and 23.
On Sunday (February 21), when the Guyana Chronicle visited the Soesdyke / Linden Highway, these two destinations were found to have scores of people. Many people were bubbling and there was an incident where social isolation was not addressed. At about 17:30 hours, police officers tried to disperse the crowds present at the resorts.
On ‘Mash Day’ (February 23), this newspaper was informed that similar activities were taking place at the resorts, and it was these events that prompted the application of sanctions. The operations of both resorts have been suspended between February 24 and March 31. Permission to reopen must be granted through the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).
In December last year, resorts were given the ‘green light’ when they re-adhered to the recommended hygiene and hygiene protocols. The FRS would first need to inspect the destinations to ensure compliance; failure to adhere to these measures will result in the revocation of conditional approval attached to COVID-19 measures.
In accordance with gazetted COVID-19 Emergency Measures (No. 14), no recreational activities are permitted on any river, inlet, beach, swimming pool and inland waters. The listed orders also state that if any person, organizer or operator fails to comply with the guidelines, the Health Minister may close the operation of that business or prohibit the event.