Transport and Harbours issues reminder of restricted ferry services
The Transport and Harbours Department (THD) has issued a reminder of the travel restrictions on ferry services to and from the Essequibo Islands.
The THD in a release yesterday, stated that these restrictions are in compliance with COVID-19 Emergency Measures (No. 3), made pursuant to the Direction by the President given under the Public Health Ordinance cap 145. It added that it is therefore reiterating the implementation of the following stringent measures to monitor the domestic movement of persons to and from the Essequibo Islands, with specific emphasis on the Parika to Supenaam route:
Two vessels will be allowed to travel between Supenaam - Parika (return trip)
Supenaam – Parika
Monday to Friday - First departure (scheduled) 7:00 am. Second departure (unscheduled) between 8:30 am - 10:00 am.
Parika - Supenaam
Monday to Friday - First departure (unscheduled) between the hours of 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. Second departure (scheduled) 2:00 pm
The THD advises that in order to ensure the health and safety of all persons, the following measures have been put in place:
Priority will be given to cargo vehicles,
Medical/Emergency vehicles and vehicles authorized to travel by Management;
Small vehicles travelling on pleasure will not be allowed;
Passengers are asked to wear their mask at all times while onboard the vessel and maintain social/physical distancing. Failure to comply with these requirements, will result in a passenger (s) being denied re-boarding of the vessel.
Passengers will be subject to additional assessment on the purpose of their trip before being given permission to board the vessel. Please be reminded that once your travel is for pleasure or you do not have cargo you will be denied entry by the authorities, including the Guyana Police Force. Any persons permitted to travel to work for essential services under the COVID-19 Emergency Measures Notice shall have in his or her possession an official identification document, an official work identification document, or proof of workplace, which must be supplied if requested by the Guyana Police Force prior to boarding.
The Department also reminded that it will continue the aforementioned schedule unless otherwise publicly informed. The public is urged to note that that such restrictions on travel are for national health, safety and protection and persons are reminded to remain at home and adhere to the COVID- 19 Emergency Measures. The Management of THD sincerely regrets any inconvenience caused and thanks the travelling public for their continuous cooperation as it seeks to curb the spread of COVID-19.