Govt plays hardball over isolators refusing tests
People in managed isolation refusing to undergo Covid-19 tests are being put on notice – comply or face the consequences.
Director-general of health Dr Ashley Bloomfield has sought legal advice over whether people in these facilities can be legally compelled to be tested.
After seeking legal advice and with an order under the Health Act in his name, Bloomfield believed he was on solid ground.
People deemed ‘‘low risk’’ must have spent 14 days in a facility without showing symptoms and, crucially, must return a negative test result before their departure.
Those who continue to refuse can be held in the facility for another 14 days.
‘‘No one is allowed to leave managed isolation, for any reason, without returning a negative test result.
‘‘Of course, they can decline having a swab, but I want to make it very clear, people may need to stay for an extra 14 days,’’ Bloomfield said.
It comes as Abigail McEwan, who is managed isolation at Auckland’s Pullman Hotel, said several people due to finish their 14-day period this weekend were refusing to take a Covid-19 test.
The man appointed to review and oversee border facilities, Air Commodore Darryn ‘Digby’ Webb said he had ‘‘made it clear’’ to facility managers that no one is to leave without a negative test result.
Stories have also emerged of people in border facilities failing to adhere to the rules.
Webb warned there will be consequences for them too.
‘‘I must be clear. People must take responsibility for their actions and if they choose not to, there are consequences which may include a $4000 fine or six months in prison,’’ Webb said.
Housing Minister Megan Woods said the Government would have spent $81m on accommodating people in managed isolation and quarantine by the end of June.