Given another week has passed with  no new cases of COVID-19 being reported, government will move to Phase Two of its reopening plan, three days earlier than initially stipulated.

At a press briefing on Saturday, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley said the second tier for reopening will begin on May 21st and includes a complete reopening of the manufacturing and construction sectors.

The announcement came days after the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers Association (TTMA) made a formal request to the PM, calling for all manufacturers to be allowed to resume operations on May 18th.

Mechanics, tyre shops, laundries and dry cleaners will also be allowed to resume operations in Phase Two.

While there will be an increase in movement, transport providers are still required to operate at 50% capacity. On this end, the government will supply a one-off $2000 Fuel Support Grant for Maxi-Drivers. Dr. Rowley says the initiative is projected to cost the State roughly $6 million.

As barbers, hairdressers and domestic workers must remain at home at this time, given their line of work “poses the greatest amount of threat” according to the PM, a directive will be given to the Social Development Ministry for workers in these sectors to be given priority for the receipt of grants.

Phase Three of the reopening, as announced last week, will see the following measures being implemented:

-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 although steps are being taken to lift restrictions incrementally, the public is still required to obey the Public Health Regulations, adding that the Trinidad and Tobago Police and the District Medical Officer has “enough power” to influence compliance.

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh also announced that a request will be made to the Permanent Secretary at his Ministry on Monday, for contract workers to be brought on board in helping enforce regulations.