Prime Minister's Media Conference in Tobago - Friday September 3rd 2021

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley announced that places of worship will reopen from Monday September 6th, 2021. However, some restrictions apply as gatherings must not exceed 25% of normal capacity, and services should be limited to one hour. PM Rowley also urged religious leaders to encourage their congregation to get vaccinated. The Prime Minister confirmed that 50,000 Pfizer COVID-19 doses will be allocated to members of the general public. This will be used to vaccinate 25,000 citizens starting from tomorrow, Saturday September 4th, 2021. This batch of 50,000 is separate from those set aside for children between the ages of 12 and 18. Prime Minister Rowley said in four weeks, if projections remain on course and there is an increase in vaccinations during the month of September, certain aspects of business can become "safe zones" where vaccinated persons can visit places like gyms, restaurants for in-house dining, cinemas, casinos, bars etc. However, there will be no party events or large congregations. The Prime Minister encouraged the population "to stay the course" with the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme. He lamented Tobago's response to the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, and urged them to participate. He expressed concern that Tobago does not have enough hospitals, beds, doctors and other health requirements to deal with a COVID-19 outbreak and urged people on the island to pay attention to their safety. Prime Minister Rowley dismissed calls for the reopening of beaches at this time. He said the last time there was a spike in COVID-19 cases, the health experts were able to trace it back to the opening of beaches. The Prime Minister assured that suppressing the spread of COVID-19 remains a priority of his Government. He said there's a proven benefit that vaccination allows the population to respond better to the virus as it provides some level of immunity. The PM confirmed that the Cabinet had long discussions on the management of the pandemic and also on the upcoming budget, which is expected to be one with a "little difference" to deal with a post pandemic T&T. Cabinet also held detailed discussions to ensure Small and Medium business entrepreneurs get support. On a question on whether Carnival 2022 will take place, PM Rowley said at this point of time, he does not see large Carnival parades or events happening. However, some activities may still go through. At this time, he said it is too early to give a definitive answer on Carnival. The sea bridge capacity will be expanded from 50 to 75%. Arrangements will also be made to increase the number of flights on the air bridge.