Jackson renews call for declaration of state of emergency over COVID-19 pandemic

 

Opposition Spokesman on National Security Fitz Jackson is again pushing for the declaration of a state of emergency to facilitate decisions that the government may have to make, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that could have legal implications.

 

Mr. Jackson pointed to Prime Minister Andrew Holness's statement that the government was working towards the development of a home quarantine solution incorporating technology that will facilitate the geo-fencing and monitoring of persons re-entering Jamaica.

 

This is against the background of the Government quarantine facilities reaching capacity and the large number of Jamaicans waiting to be repatriated.

 

It has been suggested that with the use of the proposed technology, future safety concerns may arise.

 

Mr. Jackson argued that emergency passage of legislation could assist the government, if a law does not already exist. 

 

"I don't believe that we are treating the situation in a real emergency way. If you need to make legislative arrangement to deal with an emergency situation, convene the parliament. It's an emergency and not a normal regular situation. Instruct Cabinet meets, give the Cabinet instructions to the CPC to draft the legislation to allow these things to happen so that you can deal with the emergency of the magnitude that you have," he contended. 

 

Mr. Jackson does not believe the government has been communicating effectively with Jamaicans who are stranded on cruise ships, about their return status.

 

Prime Minister Andrew Holness on Thursday disclosed that the repatriation of  Jamaicans has been suspended for 14 days as quarantine facilities are full.

 

Mr. Jackson has been pressuring the government for the return of Jamaicans aboard the Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas, who he claimed are due to arrive on Sunday.

 

Responding to queries from the Gleaner, National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang said no decision has been made as talks with Royal Caribbean were still underway.

 

Mr. Jackson said he accepts that the repatriation process must be managed but there should be a priority list.

 

He said the government should also consider other solutions to the problem of state quarantine, such as allowing Jamaicans to be quarantined on the ships on which they are to return. 

 

He is also suggesting that university halls, which are not being used, could house repatriated Jamaicans.

 

Mr. Jackson was speaking Friday on the Morning Agenda on Power 106.