Jamaican Health Minister clamps down on illegal sport events

Tufton is clamping down on unlawful sporting events while issuing a piece of stern warning to organisers that no unnecessary exceptions will be granted as Jamaica continues to fight with the extent of the coronavirus infection.

Tufton was conversing to media in the information of the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ recent end of the JN Bank Men’s Invitational Exhibition tennis competition, which started on Monday and is scheduled to run until Friday.

The event, which, according to Tennis Jamaica President John P. Azar, was not approved by the sport’s political authority, was bought off at the Liguanea Club on Wednesday.

“I was told no permission was given for that (tennis) and a swimming tournament that is coming up. I don’t know what is going on,” stated Tufton.

“I have questioned, and I was told that the individuals that would play could not be allowed permission based on their journeys to other authorities and were under quarantine.”

There are 3,106 active COVID-19 cases in Jamaica. Two hundred and seventy-six people have killed from the infection.

Tufton indicated that there would be no skirting of the pressures involved to maintain the coronavirus infection within the island. That includes the 14-day isolation- a control the Government has announced despite instructions from the Pan American Health Organization that it could terminate.

“Everybody wants an exemption, and everybody wants everybody to follow the rules, but you cannot have both. If you make a plan and support for one, what will you tell the others?” replied Tufton, who described that the stay order was issued by Chief Medical Officer Dr Jacquiline Bisasor McKenzie.

Meanwhile, the Aquatic Sports Association of Jamaica (ASAJ) has been instructed by the Kingston and St Andrew Health Department to present its logistical arrangements for a swim meet that is scheduled to take place at the National Aquatic Centre this weekend. No permission will be granted except the event meets the ministry’s guidelines.