By Shermain Bique-Charles
Ten new Covid compliance officers will be officially deployed at what the Central Board of Health is describing as ‘hot spots’ across Antigua.
These men and women are expected to undergo intensive training from February 1to 4, according to Chief Health Inspector (CHI) Sharon Martin.
“They are going to be trained before they are deployed into English Harbour, Jolly Harbour and [St John’s]. They will be going around to ensure business places follow the protocols when dealing with patrons,” Martin told Observer.
Particularly where bars and restaurants are concerned, Martin said the officers will be ensuring that patrons follow protocols, more specifically the Covid vaccine mandate which requires vaccination upon entry.
The CHI said she is aware that some restaurants and bars have not been asking for proof of vaccination.
“If [patrons] don’t have a vaccination card they should not be allowed in and so the officers will be looking into all of that. It will be on a more consistent basis,” she added.
The new officers will also be authorised to ticket people found not complying with the Covid-19 protocols.
“Those areas that have a lot of activities on the weekend, we find it hard to control them,” Martin disclosed.
“The new officers will be receiving special powers from the Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin, so they will be able to ticket these establishments who are noncompliant.”