"I am duty-bound to caution citizens," says PM Keith Rowley

Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Dr Keith Rowley stated on Sunday that it is his duty to caution citizens that unrestrained conduct in public and private settings can and will push the emergence of COVID-19 cases. PM said he have been observing the statements and criticisms from certain quarters, which in his opinion, are unfortunate. "As Prime Minister I respect and support the Constitution, the rule, of law and due process and I am insistent that law enforcement must act within the confines of the law," stated PM Rowley.

He stated that he is also duty-bound to point out the laws of the country, including the Public Health Ordinance, the Public Health Regulations, the Police Service Act.

"Other laws at certain specific circumstances cover the enforcement and management of laws in private premises via public health officers with or without aid of the Trinidad and Tobathe go Police Service," stated PM Rowley. Furthermore, explaining the laws of the constitution, PM Rowley stated that section 133 of the Public Health Ordinance, for example, states that any person authorised to act under the provisions hereof or of any regulations made in pursuance of any authority contained in this part of this ordinance may at any time, with or without assistance. He stated that the section allows entering places and buildings to inspect and examine the things. Besides this, it also allows land, or in any building, any sanitary or other work authorised or directed. Prime Minister stated that subsections c grants the permission to generally do, with respect to persons, places, land, building, animals, or things, whatever is necessary or expedient in order to carry out the foregoing provisions of this Part of this Ordinance, or any direction or requirement given or arising thereunder. "

Prime Minister made these remarks as the opposition continue to target the government for allowing to enter private places to check if COVID-19 restrictions are being followed.

PM Rowley asserted that the private properties are abundant and of concern. He stated other jurisdictions had implemented States of Emergencies where constitutional rights are suspended and go as far as limiting the number of persons permitted in private settings as well as the nature and type of activities permitted on private properties. He added that while Trinidad and Tobago have obviously not done the same but has instead successfully utilised other measures to manage the pandemic, which have thus far resulted in a hard-fought balance between saving lives and livelihoods.

PM said that these are exceptional times, and people need to follow the guidelines to save the country.