Government has unveiled a three-tiered plan to be rolled out over the next six weeks, as it cautiously moves to kickstart the resumption of activity.

At a press conference on Saturday, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley warned, before introducing the measures,  that “this is not a get-away card” and caution must still be exercised, given the threat of COVID-19 still exists.  Admitting he felt “a little nervous” about the risk, he urged the public not to abuse their new freedoms. “This is the new normal. No hand shaking, no hugging up, no kissing. And always, going into the other faces and the months ahead- wear your face covering, wear a mask” he cautioned.

Here’s a rundown of the three phases and what they entail:

Phase One (May 10th- May 23rd)

-Restaurants will reopen for business but will be limited to curbside delivery, drive-throughs and deliveries. In dining remains prohibited.

-Street vending is now allowed and businesses are urged to enforce social distancing at their venues. All food places however, must close by 8pm daily.

-Hardware stores (including electrical and plumbing stores) will be allowed to operate for full working days, between 8am and 4pm.

-Supermarkets will continue operations from 8am to 6pm. Pharmacies will continue to close at 8pm.

-Limited outdoor activity (such as jogging) can resume but no group or close contact activities are allowed. Groups must not gather with more than five people.

-Three businesses given the green light to resume production: Tobacco (Witco)/ Cement (TCL)/ Nu-Iron permission to reopen on Monday. (PM says this is for T&T to secure its position as a strong exporter in the  region.)

NB: Hairdressers, barbers, and bars will remain closed during this period.

With COVID-19 testing continuing during this season, if there is no spike in confirmed cases the country will elevate to phase two.

Phase Two: (May 24th to June 6th)

Reopening of the manufacturing sector as well as the public sector construction.

Phase Three (June 7th to June 20th)

Utilizing a system of alternate days, public sectors will be allowed to resume office work, with each Ministry using their own flexible guideline to suit. 

-PTSC will increase transport services to 75% capacity, up from the current 50%.

-Consideration will be given for public spaces such as beaches, rivers and cinemas to be reopened during this phase. 

The Prime Minister stressed that the borders will be the last step it implements, given the enormous threat it poses in the fight against COVID-19.