Many Saint Lucians will have to bring in the New Year in a new way. On Tuesday afternoon, the government announced that no permission will be granted for the traditional fireworks displays, in an effort to discourage gatherings. The announcement was made via the following joint statement from the Saint Lucia Fire Service, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force and the Department of Health:
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the protocols related to containing the spread of COVID-19, the Government of Saint Lucia, on the advice of the Command Centre, has taken the decision to suspend fireworks displays normally associated with the New Year activities.
The Government is calling on all Saint Lucians to ring in the New Year safely and to avoid any events or activities that compromise public health and safety. Hence, no licenses or permission will be granted approving fireworks displays, which we know encourages gathering, for the specified period.
The Government of Saint Lucia is appealing to the public to observe the protocols which are necessary for the protection of the entire population. The public is further reminded of the following:
– All business operations and commercial activities must end by 11:00PM daily, as guided by The COVID-19 (Prevention & Control) Act, Section 17(2)(b).
– Social gatherings are restricted to TWENTY-FIVE (25) people. In public and private settings, individuals are encouraged to limit their contact as much as possible and adhere to all the necessary protocols and practice general hygiene procedures.
– Restaurants and bars are to operate during the business hours until 11:00PM with protocols in effect.
There will be increased police presence during the holiday weekend to ensure that there is strict enforcement of the protocols and a zero tolerance policy will be in effect.
The Saint Lucia Fire Service, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force and the Department of Health thank the public for their cooperation and continued assistance in the efforts to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Government urges all Saint Lucians to make the safety of individuals, family, friends and the community at large our top priority as we look forward to 2021.
