Good day, fellow Barbadians, residents and visitors. The Government of Barbados and its social partners recognise that since the decision to impose restrictions on the movement of citizens, as well as the subsequent closure of supermarkets and most other retail grocery outlets, a number of concerns have been raised.
Even before the decisions were made public, the Government of Barbados and its social partnership had already initiated discussions to develop a system that would meet the socio-economic need of access of our people to necessary supplies while at the same time observing the public health protocols that have been put in place to contain the spread of COVID-19.
In an effort to ensure that all Barbadians, but particularly the most vulnerable, have access to adequate food supplies during the 24-hour curfew period, a new regime has been developed — to take effect from tomorrow, Wednesday April 8, 2020.
This regime is based on extensive consultation between representatives of the Cabinet, the Barbados Private Sector Association and the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry, under the chairmanship of Acting Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw, with input from Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley.
This new arrangement will run for the duration of the current curfew period, and will be strictly enforced to ensure that we do not compromise the protocols that have been put in place across the country to halt the spread of the COVID-19.
However, it will be subject to constant review, and if necessary, alteration, given the fluidity of the circumstances and the ongoing COVID-19 response.
To download the full statement from Acting Prime Minister, Santia Bradshaw, please click here. You may also click here to find out further details about access to food supplies.