The Government of Antigua & Barbuda has said that no restrictions have been placed on travelers from countries still reeling from the coronavirus pandemic.
“The answer is no,” Information Minister Melford Nicholas said yesterday at the post cabinet briefing.
“And the reason for that is as most persons will be aware our economy needs the revitalization,” he said.
Borders will open here from June 1 with the first international flight expected from Miami on June 4.
“It is very clear that the government has indicated that there is a risk that we have to take. We are obliged to take a calculated risk to open our economy and certainly the mainstay of the economy has been tourism,” Nicholas said.
He acknowledged that two of our source markets, the USA and Europe have had some significant exposure to covid-19. But he said he was assured by protocols put in place by airlines and by the local authorities.
“It is clear that the airlines would not want to their passengers, personnel or reputation exposed. So to the extent that upstream, persons who want to travel would have to meet certain requirements, and to the extent that we going to have to put those other measures in place locally as well, we believe that this double filtration system is going to give us some cover and some degree of protection.”
Cases of coronavirus are still growing in many US states, parts of Europe and South America.
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Only fools will enter a plain from this hot spots.
I consider this decision reckless
Yes, let’s go ahead and revitalize our funeral home and cemetery industries – seems like they will be busy soon with all the inbound sick folks. Maybe UWI-Five Islands can establish a bachelors in mortuary services? The 21st century industries of a wonderful Antigua economy!
Anyone has any updates on LIAT?
Not before July
Minister has made clear yes we will not avoid the risk but we will take measures to mitigate. Some of the measures are Covid testing, social distancing, temperature checks for front line staff. Masks will be worn by taxi drivers. Vehicles will be sanitized before and after each trip. Frequent had washing
God protect us
I was in a forum and it was mentioned by Representatives of the ministry of health that these international travelers will NOT be tested before coming to Antigua and we all know that the country can’t almost nearly handle a proper dose of covid so all I can say is I hope that those in charge AR prepared to take the responsibility for what’s next in store on their quest for riches…….
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