What's the government response timeline for Jamaica?

Jamaica issues ban on China-related travel https://www.moh.gov.jm/jamaica-issues-ban-on-china-related-travel/

Note: It is an interpretation from the measures taken by the Government; some examples may be seen in the following links: https://www.moh.gov.jm/jamaica-issues-ban-on-china-related-travel/ https://www.moh.gov.jm/health-ministry-traces-passengers-of-flight-aa-1515-from-miami-to-montego-bay/ https://www.moh.gov.jm/persons-who-attended-funeral-with-first-confirmed-covid-19-patient-urged-to-contact-health-ministry/

Jamaica issues ban on China-related travel https://www.moh.gov.jm/jamaica-issues-ban-on-china-related-travel/

"Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, says a Ministry-led national public education campaign is under way to heighten citizens’ awareness about the novel coronavirus. Addressing journalists at a media briefing at the Ministry’s offices in New Kingston on February 5, Dr. Tufton said newspaper advertisements have commenced, and there are social media postings on his personal page as well as those of the Ministry and Regional Health Authorities. “I understand we will hear some radio ads coming out soon,” the Minister added. “We would have done a series of interviews… myself [and] the various medical team members. I get a call almost every day for a comment… and I try to respond because I know it’s important." https://jis.gov.jm/public-education-campaign-to-heighten-awareness-about-coronavirus/

Expanded Travel Restrictions "persons who have visited Italy, South Korea, Iran and Singapore in the last 14 days and who do not have permanent residency or marriage exemption in Jamaica will not be granted landing privileges at any of the country’s ports of entry;" https://www.moh.gov.jm/expanded-travel-restrictions/

Expanded Travel Restrictions "persons who have visited Italy, South Korea, Iran and Singapore in the last 14 days and who do not have permanent residency or marriage exemption in Jamaica will not be granted landing privileges at any of the country’s ports of entry;" https://www.moh.gov.jm/expanded-travel-restrictions/

"At the same time: Public gatherings are discouraged." https://www.moh.gov.jm/jamaica-confirms-first-imported-coronavirus-case/

"In addition, imposed travel restrictions remain in place, with three countries now added to the list of five (China, Italy, South Korea, Singapore, and Iran) previously made public. They are Spain, France and Germany." https://www.moh.gov.jm/jamaica-confirms-first-imported-coronavirus-case/

"Where the law requires the granting of a permit for any event or gathering, no permits will be issued within the next 14 days, so that means any event, any entertainment events, any gathering that requires the issuing of a permit, we will instruct the permitting authorities, police, and the municipal councils not to issue any permits. Permits that are already issued will be rescinded, revoked effectively." https://opm.gov.jm/news/government-restricts-public-gatherings-for-the-next-14-days-in-wake-of-second-covid-19-case-in-jamaica-2/

No formal restrictions are yet in place but there are cautions: "there are still private companies, [and] business that are having meetings, weddings, funerals, and Sunday morning church service, we are asking the public [to exercise] responsibility,” said Prime Minister Holness. see: https://opm.gov.jm/news/government-restricts-public-gatherings-for-the-next-14-days-in-wake-of-second-covid-19-case-in-jamaica-2/

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has advised that effective Friday, March 13, 2020, all schools are to be closed for 14 days. http://jamaica-star.com/article/20200312/holness-orders-closure-all-schools

"The 7 to 8 Miles area of Bull Bay is under quarantine", Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced this evening. see: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/7_and_8_Miles_under_quarantine

The PM signed an emergency declaration on 13 March and additionally quarantined two communities: seven miles and eight miles in Bull Bay St. Andrew. Travel into and out of these communities will be controlled. https://opm.gov.jm/news/jamaica-declared-a-disaster-area-as-covid-19-cases-increase-and-two-communities-quarantined/

"The United Kingdom will be added to list of countries, which travel restrictions have been imposed by the Government, as Jamaica continues to combat the spread of COVID-19. This is to become effective on Monday, March 16, 2020. persons who visited countries of interest in the last 14 days and who do not have permanent residency or marriage exemption in Jamaica would not be granted landing privileges at any of the country’s ports of entry;" https://www.moh.gov.jm/united-kingdom-added-to-countries-with-travel-restrictions/

In a bid to contain the local spread of the COVID-19 disease, Prime Minister Andrew Holness yesterday announced a raft of restrictions including limiting gatherings in public spaces to 20 persons or fewer, prompting operators of KFC, Jamaica’s largest fast food chain, to implement changes to its operations. http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/lead-stories/20200317/crowd-crackdown-1m-fine-looms-govt-bans-mass-gatherings-closes-bars

"The United Kingdom will be added to list of countries, which travel restrictions have been imposed by the Government, as Jamaica continues to combat the spread of COVID-19. This is to become effective on Monday, March 16, 2020. persons who visited countries of interest in the last 14 days and who do not have permanent residency or marriage exemption in Jamaica would not be granted landing privileges at any of the country’s ports of entry;" https://www.moh.gov.jm/united-kingdom-added-to-countries-with-travel-restrictions/

Prime Minister Andrew Holness clarifies what is meant by "work from home" for the public and private sector as we as a nation continue to fight the spread of COVID19. From March 18 to March 25. https://twitter.com/jamaicacommerce/status/1240054403920429056 As previously announced, both the public and private sectors have been encouraged to examine their operations and decide which elements can be done from home. Businesses are also implored to reduce public engagement. However, businesses that offer retail services for the provision of food, medicine and other necessities of life, including supermarkets, pharmacies and markets are to remain open. https://www.moh.gov.jm/business-in-jamaica-continues-within-covid-19-parameters/

"In that regard, Prime Minister Holness said gatherings should be limited to 20 persons. This includes funerals, weddings, and church services. The police are now empowered by law to take action if gatherings exceed 20 persons." https://opm.gov.jm/news/cabinet-approves-a-raft-of-measures-including-work-from-home-for-non-essential-tasks/

"With effect from 11:59PM on Saturday March 21, 2020, and for a period of fourteen (14) days in the first instance, Jamaica’s air and seaports will be closed to incoming passenger traffic. Outgoing passenger and cargo will be allowed" https://jm.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information-jamaica/ https://twitter.com/christufton/status/1241132443106791427

Will Dowling update: Updating source as previously linked doesn't give enough info: https://www.stabroeknews.com/2020/03/24/news/regional/jamaica/jamaica-schools-closed-until-after-easter/ Source: https://en.unesco.org/covid19/educationresponse

The Prime Minister of Jamaica announced on Twitter: "With effect from the 25th day of March 2020, for a period of fourteen (14) days, all public sector workers, 65 years and older are to work from home, subject to exemptions to be specified." see: https://twitter.com/AndrewHolnessJM/status/1242246596898762758

Effective from 25 March onwards, public gatherings were not allowed to have more than 10 people (a reduction from the previous limit of 20 people). http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/CRUNCH_TIME?profile=1373 https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jamaica/coronavirus

All citizens 75 years and over are subject to a stay-at-home order for 14 days commencing 25 March. https://twitter.com/AndrewHolnessJM/status/1242246121298280449

"In either case, we have two months’ supply of testing material. We do have enough test kits in place to conduct the surveillance, as well as the testing of persons that are suspected cases" https://jis.gov.jm/jamaica-gets-material-to-conduct-3000-covid-19-tests/

The PM announces a nightly curfew for a period of 7 days. All Jamaicans are required to stay at home during nighttime hours (8pm to 6am). https://opm.gov.jm/news/pm-holness-announces-nightly-islandwide-curfews-for-7-days/

The Government through the NHT put in place special relief for mortgagors who may lose their jobs as a result of COVID-19. Effective immediately, mortgagors who are laid off can apply for a moratorium on all loan payments of three months in the first instance. The NHT will also provide a special one-off offer to contributors, the option to reschedule delinquent loans. The option will only be made available where the Trust has not already entered into a commitment to dispose of the property. The opportunity will be extended for 6 months, effective April 1, 2020. During this period, the NHT will consider each mortgage on a case-by-case basis, with the option to extend the tenor of the loan or reduce the interest rate. The measures include: - Effective April 1, 2020 the NHT will reduce interest rates on all new loans by 1% (benefitting some 8,000 new mortgagors annually) - All existing NHT loans will be reduced by 0.5% (benefitting some100,000 existing mortgagors). Interest rate discounts currently offered to special groups, such as mortgagors aged 55 years and over, the disabled as well as public sector workers will continue. - The interest rate discounts for the disabled will be effective April 1, 2020 and will also be extended to include the parents of disabled children. - The NHT will expand the Intergenerational Mortgage Program. Beginning April 1, 2020, the NHT will extend this benefit for eligible applicants for other loan products, such as open market purchases and construction loans. Funding under this Program will be capped at the prevailing loan limit. - The NHT will also provide greater benefits to contributors over 65 years. Persons in this category will be designated as Voluntary Contributors and therefore be able to access housing benefits with tenures extending up to age 70. - The NHT will establish a special arrangement whereby, following maturity of the loan, the insurance arrangement at special rates may be continued. The cost savings will enable beneficiaries to continue the protection of their properties in a period of life when their earning power may be at its lowest. - The NHT will, during FY2020/21, seek to leverage its current mortgage loan portfolio through a securitization transaction to generate additional inflows. Covid Student’s Loan Bureau Jamaica will be deferring principal and interest payments on student loans for the three-month period April – June to cushion the impact on young graduates while giving new graduates 14 months to start payment their student loans after graduation. The Constituency Development Fund will also be increased by $3 million to address Covid Compassionate Grants and Care packages for the vulnerable on a constituency basis. This will cost approximately $200 million. https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2020/04/jamaica-government-and-institution-measures-in-response-to-covid.html

The Prime Minister extends the nationwide curfew. Over Easter weekend the curfew will extend from 3pm to 7am each night. After Easter the curfew will be 9pm to 5am until 21 April. Notice on PM website: https://opm.gov.jm/news/government-to-extend-islandwide-nightly-curfew/ Tweet with details: https://twitter.com/televisionjam/status/1248020734091440129

Covid Allocation of Resources for Employees (CARE) program All grants under CARE: 1. SET CASH - SUPPORTING EMPLOYEES WITH TRANSFER OF CASH 2. BEST CASH - BUSINESS EMPLOYEE SUPPORT & TRANSFER OF CASH 3. COVID-19 GENERAL GRANTS 4. COVID-19 COMPASSIONATE GRANTS 5. COVID-19 PATH GRANTS 6. COVID-19 SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS 7. COVID-19 TOURISM GRANTS 8. COVID-19 STUDENT LOAN RELIEF 9. OTHER COVID-19 SUPPORT PROGRAMMES The Business Employee Support and Transfer of Cash (BEST Cash): This will provide temporary cash transfers to registered businesses operating in the hotel, tours, attraction companies, segments of the tourism industry who are licensed with the Jamaica Tourist Board based on the number of workers they keep employed who are under the income tax threshold of $1.5 million. When such businesses file and pay their payroll returns as usual on the 15th of April, May and June, for each employee, with taxable income that is less than 1.5 on whose behalf statutory returns are applied, the Government will transfer funds at a rate of $9,000 per fortnight to that tourism related business, by direct transfer to their bank account, paid monthly. For the months of April, May and June that will equate to $54,000 for each employee they retain whose taxable income is less than $1.5 million Informal sector - The Government will allocate $1 billion in additional funding to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to provide Covid Grants to those who are marginally self-employed and informally employed. The application portal for CARE opened on 9th April, 2020. Minimum wage in Jamaica is $7000 per week i.e. $28000 p.m. Under this package, the maximum allocation over three months (April, May, June) is $57,000 i.e. $18,000 p.m. Hence, this will be less than 50% of lost income for many workers. https://jis.gov.jm/media/2020/04/CARE-Brochure-Ministry-of-Finance-2020.pdf https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2020/04/jamaica-government-and-institution-measures-in-response-to-covid.html

"Come June 1, employees who have been working from home since March as part of measures to contain the coronavirus (COVID-19), will be allowed to return to work. This was announced by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, who indicated that Government will not be renewing the work-from-home order when it expires at the end of May. However, Mr. Holness pointed out that workers who are 65 and over and those who suffer from co-morbidities are to remain home." https://jis.gov.jm/work-from-home-order-expires-may-31/

On April 5th, the PM announced that borders would be closed for another 15 days. And the Government of Jamaica has announced that borders will remain closed until May 31 Source 1: https://jis.gov.jm/jamaicas-ports-of-entry-remain-closed-to-incoming-travellers/ Source 2a https://www.un.int/jamaica/news/extension-closure-jamaican-borders-until-31-may-2020 Source 2b: https://jm.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information-jamaica/

In the community of St Catherine all people must remain at home, with specific time slots (a few hours once a week) where one person per household can conduct essential business. https://opm.gov.jm/news/st-catherine-has-been-placed-under-lockdown-for-seven-days/

The community of St Catherine is placed under total lockdown, with only essential workers being able to move in and out of the parish. https://opm.gov.jm/news/st-catherine-has-been-placed-under-lockdown-for-seven-days/

Website stating extra measures taking for cleaning public transportation, which does not include any curtail of services https://jutc.gov.jm/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/. see: https://jutc.gov.jm/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/

"Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, says a Ministry-led national public education campaign is under way to heighten citizens’ awareness about the novel coronavirus. Addressing journalists at a media briefing at the Ministry’s offices in New Kingston on February 5, Dr. Tufton said newspaper advertisements have commenced, and there are social media postings on his personal page as well as those of the Ministry and Regional Health Authorities. “I understand we will hear some radio ads coming out soon,” the Minister added. “We would have done a series of interviews… myself [and] the various medical team members. I get a call almost every day for a comment… and I try to respond because I know it’s important." https://jis.gov.jm/public-education-campaign-to-heighten-awareness-about-coronavirus/

"In either case, we have two months’ supply of testing material. We do have enough test kits in place to conduct the surveillance, as well as the testing of persons that are suspected cases" https://jis.gov.jm/jamaica-gets-material-to-conduct-3000-covid-19-tests/ These official guidelines seem to confirm that symptomatic and eligible are the ones being tested: https://www.moh.gov.jm/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Guideline-for-COVID-19-Sample-Collection-by-Mobile-Unit.pdf

Based on Ministry's statements, they're trying to implement a comprehensive contact tracing policy: https://jis.gov.jm/health-minister-emphasises-importance-of-contact-tracing/ http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/tufton-wants-more-training-for-contact-tracing-quarantining_192926?profile=1432

Website stating extra measures taking for cleaning public transportation, which does not include any curtail of services https://jutc.gov.jm/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/

The restriction on movement in and out of St Catherine parish remains in place (although the stay-at-home order is relaxed slightly, and now they are just subject to the same nationwide curfew). http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/gov-t-relaxes-st-catherine-lockdown-measures-but-tightens-islandwide-curfew-shutters-some-bpo-operations_192510?profile=1373

"It also reminded commuters that passengers will only be carried between 6:00 am and 6:00 pm daily, in keeping with the latest restrictions announced by the Government." Source: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/auto-front-page/new-rules-for-public-transportation_192749

The PM announced an extension to the curfew (a further 14 days from 22 April) with new hours, with citizens being required to stay at home from 6pm to 6am each day. https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours/

A national curfew was put in place from April 22 to May 6, from May 6 to May 13, from May 13 to May 31. Source: https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours/

Source: https://en.unesco.org/covid19/educationresponse

Jamaica Gazzete (Enforcement Measures No. 4): "During the period from April 22, 2020, to May 6, 2020— (a) subject to the exceptions listed in the Third Schedule, gatherings in any public place shall not exceed 10 persons at a time;" https://jis.gov.jm/jamaica-and-the-coronavirus/

Jamaica Gazzete (Enforcement Measures No. 4): "During the period from April 22, 2020, to May 6, 2020— (a) subject to the exceptions listed in the Third Schedule, gatherings in any public place shall not exceed 10 persons at a time;" https://jis.gov.jm/jamaica-and-the-coronavirus/

Based on the information published in official websites and social media (Ministry of health account), there's a coordinated public campaign in place: https://www.moh.gov.jm/

WD update: Original article linked below doesn't include info on school closings so I am updating the source. Per the Minister of Education, schools will remain closed until the new academic year in September: https://www.loopjamaica.com/content/schools-reopen-september-pep-scratched Jamaica Gazzete (Enforcement Measures No. 4): "Every educational institution, as defined in the Education Act, shall remain closed until the end of May 31, 2020" https://jis.gov.jm/jamaica-and-the-coronavirus/

public transportation available only between (5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.) https://jis.gov.jm/pm-announces-extension-of-curfew-other-covid-19-measures/

The islandwide curfew, which would have ended on Wednesday (May 6), has been extended until May 13 https://jis.gov.jm/pm-announces-extension-of-curfew-other-covid-19-measures/

The islandwide curfew, which would have ended on Wednesday (May 6), has been extended until May 13 as the country continues to observe measures aimed at containing the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) https://jis.gov.jm/pm-announces-extension-of-curfew-other-covid-19-measures/

The islandwide curfew, which would have ended on Wednesday (May 6), has been extended until May 13 as the country continues to observe measures aimed at containing the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) https://jis.gov.jm/pm-announces-extension-of-curfew-other-covid-19-measures/

Public passenger vehicle (PPV) operators have a one-hour period before the start of the curfew and an hour after it ends for personal commute to and from their homes. Operators should not pick-up or drop off passengers during this period. https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours-announced/

A new curfew cycle will commence on Tuesday, with movement restricted between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. each day, until May 31. https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours-announced/

Prime Minister, the Most Andrew Holness, has announced new curfew hours, which will take effect on Wednesday (May 13) with movement restricted between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. each day, until May 31. https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours-announced/

The SETCASH program (Government's Supporting Employees with Transfer of Cash) reported to be accepting applications based on eligibility, including being laid off or terminated before June 30. Payouts include $9,000 every two weeks paid monthly. Reporting on SETCASH payouts: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Supporting_Employees_with_Transfer_of_Cash?profile=1228

Source: https://en.unesco.org/covid19/educationresponse

"Prime Minister Holness reiterated that under the Disaster Risk Management Order, all places of amusement such as public beaches, water attractions, rivers and falls, cinemas, clubs, amusement arcade, skate rink et al should remain closed until May 31, 2020." Source: https://jis.gov.jm/islandwide-nightly-curfew-restrictions-for-labour-day-period/

"All gatherings of more than 10 people are banned." Source: https://www.worldaware.com/covid-19-alert-jamaica-extends-curfew-measures-through-may-13

"According to Prime Minister Holness, business owners will use their discretion in terms of business hours to allow for their staff to be able to travel home. Also, provisions have been made for transport operators to be on the road 1-hour before and after the curfew hours." Source: https://jis.gov.jm/islandwide-nightly-curfew-restrictions-for-labour-day-period/

“The nightly curfew which currently runs from 8pm to 5am will be adjusted for tomorrow Sunday, May 24 and on Labour Day Monday May 25. And Labour Day Monday, May 25, 2020 the hours of the curfew will run from 3:00PM to 5:00AM on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. Thereafter the nightly curfew will run from 9pm to 5am from May 26 through to May 31.” Source: https://jis.gov.jm/islandwide-nightly-curfew-restrictions-for-labour-day-period/

As of May 21, the retsrictions on gathering of no more than 10 were still in place and 12 people were arrested for violating the mandate: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20200525/12-charged-st-thomas-breaching-public-gathering-ban

Confirmation by Prime Minister that restrictions on gatherings will be maintained until June 30, with no gatherings of more than 10 people. http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20200531/pm-announces-revised-covid-measures-government-seeks-stimulate-economic

"As the ‘work safe, work smart’ order takes effect Monday (June 1), Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, is encouraging employers to make allowances for certain categories of employees to continue working from home. These include persons with weakened immune systems, those with children and those who have a sick elderly person in their care. Those employees are encouraged to dialogue or negotiate with their employers for the necessary arrangements to be put in place to allow them to work from home. Under the new order, which will be in effect from June 1 to 30, employees who have been working from home are being allowed to return to work. It replaces the work-from-home order, which became effective on March 18 and expired on May 31." Source: https://jis.gov.jm/certain-categories-of-employees-can-continue-to-work-from-home/

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has announced an extension of the islandwide curfew implemented to contain transmission of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The existing hours of 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. will remain in place until the morning of June 14. Thereafter, the curfew will begin at 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. until June 30. Source: https://jis.gov.jm/islandwide-curfew-extended/

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has announced an extension of the islandwide curfew implemented to contain transmission of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The existing hours of 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. will remain in place until the morning of June 14. Thereafter, the curfew will begin at 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. until June 30. (...) No passenger should be transported in the vehicles during this one-hour period. Source: https://jis.gov.jm/islandwide-curfew-extended/

Classified as 4 because border closure measure does not apply for nationals, with June 15 the beginning of international visitors. "The borders will be reopened to repatriated nationals tomorrow, June 1, and reopen for all international travellers on June 15. During the period of June 1 to June 14, all individuals seeking to re-enter Jamaica will be subject to testing except for those entering from a country within a travel bubble based on certain criteria. Jamaicans returning from countries not considered to be within the travel bubble would be required to be tested and quarantined at home with either phone or wrist band geofencing". Source: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Jamaica_will_reopen_its_borders_tomorrow_

In discussion of the Cabinet's decision to allow the work at home order to expire on May 31, the Prime Minister says in a virtual press confernce "We are now at the point where we can say to our Jamaican workforce that you should return to work." Continued coding at 1G level as safety recommendations and protections for vulnerable workers (ex: 65+ exempted from returning to work) remain in place. Report on press announcement: https://caribbeanbusinessreport.com/news/jamaicas-work-from-home-order-wont-be-renewed-on-may-31-expiration-pm-holness/ Prime minister discusses the need for "understanding" in parent's caring for school children etc: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/pm-calls-for-understanding-in-return-of-workers_195001?profile=0 However, President of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association quoted urging caution, that "we think the Government has set a guideline — it's not an instruction — so they're some people who can go back to work; and I don't think people should interpret it to mean you must go back to work." "In the case of Seprod, the people who are working remotely, I have no intention of bringing them back to the office because COVID-19 is still here" http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/business-leaders-urge-caution-on-return-to-workplace-approach_194819?profile=1373

UNICEF site confirms as of 6/5 ongoing prohibition of large public gatherings. https://data.unicef.org/resources/rapid-situation-tracking-covid-19-socioeconomic-impacts-data-viz/

Continuation of limited public transport operations, permitted an additional hour before and after curfews. http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20200531/pm-announces-revised-covid-measures-government-seeks-stimulate-economic

Ongoing curfew measures http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20200531/pm-announces-revised-covid-measures-government-seeks-stimulate-economic

UNICEF reporting domestic travel restrictions in Jamaica as of June 5 https://data.unicef.org/resources/rapid-situation-tracking-covid-19-socioeconomic-impacts-data-viz/ Continued curfew restrictions, stay at home measures for persons 65+ http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20200531/pm-announces-revised-covid-measures-government-seeks-stimulate-economic

Discussion of ongoing mortgage relief: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/all-woman/so-you-ve-taken-a-pay-cut-_195674?profile=0

Ministry of Health and Wellness official self-reporting tool includes video explaining how to fill out the tool if a person has symptoms, and that at that point they can schedule a test with the Ministry. https://jamcovid19.moh.gov.jm/

Continued availability of self-reporting for symptoms on Jamaica Ministry of Health and Wellness indicates below information on contact tracing still relevant. https://jamcovid19.moh.gov.jm/ https://jis.gov.jm/health-minister-emphasises-importance-of-contact-tracing/

Beaches and rivers remain open as of June 13 (with encouragement for observance of social distancing) after lifting of June 7 restrictions. However, all water attractions, sports bars, places of amusement, and nightclubs will remain closed. https://jis.gov.jm/beaches-and-rivers-will-remain-open-until-june-30/

To begin on June 8, secondary schools across the island have reopened their doors to accommodate fifth-and sixth-form students who will be sitting the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), beginning July 13. This marks a loosening of previous restrictions. Minister with oversight for Education, Youth and Information gave details in press conference May 31. https://jis.gov.jm/schools-reopen-for-csec-and-cape-students-june-8/ Local media reports on openings: https://jis.gov.jm/marcus-garvey-high-administrators-say-reopening-was-a-success/ https://jis.gov.jm/measures-in-place-at-trelawny-high-schools-to-protect-students-and-staff/

Continued curfew limiting movement at night. Source: https://jis.gov.jm/islandwide-curfew-extended/ "Resilient corridor" for tourists established, movements of visitors restricted. https://jis.gov.jm/covid-19-resilient-corridor-established-for-tourists/

Ministry of Health website and Prime Minister Holness Facebook page continues to post COVID updates and safety tips. https://www.moh.gov.jm/

Self assessment remains on Ministry of Health website, new cases reported. https://www.moh.gov.jm/

Self assessment remains on Ministry of Health website, new cases reported. Advice for those who suspect illness. https://www.moh.gov.jm/

Limited operations before and after curfew until June 30. Source: https://jis.gov.jm/islandwide-curfew-extended/

Curfew continues per above descriptions

Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett and Health and Wellness Minister, Hon Christopher Tufton announce the June 15 full reopening of Jamaica’s borders to international travel. http://archive.fo/5z5mQ They were required to undergo health screening and risk assessment, including temperature checks and an interview by a health officer. http://archive.vn/JOFVU Access to island is limited to a contained corridor for visitors: https://jis.gov.jm/covid-19-resilient-corridor-established-for-tourists/

COVID student loans discussed as ongoing through June. https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2020/04/jamaica-government-and-institution-measures-in-response-to-covid.html

Partial reopening of schools confirmed on June 22. http://archive.fo/8XXCN

Prime Minister has not made further statements supporting work from home on his public social media. Official jamcovid.19 page does not mention working from home unless ill. https://jamcovid19.moh.gov.jm/how-to-protect.html

Curfew extended to 31st July, now 11pm-5am. https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours-come-into-effect-june-30/

Curfew extended to 31st July, now 11pm-5am. https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours-come-into-effect-june-30/

Curfew extended to 31st July, now 11pm-5am. https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours-come-into-effect-june-30/

Curfew extended to 31st July, now 11pm-5am. https://jis.gov.jm/new-curfew-hours-come-into-effect-june-30/

End of the academic year on July 2nd. http://archive.fo/8XXCN

For citizens returning to Jamaica: “One of the changes that you will see is that you will not be tested at the airport. You will go home and you will go on the JamCOVID app and make an appointment for testing. This is for our returning Jamaicans,” Dr Bisasor-McKenzie said. “If you are not able to use your phone, you can call the health department to set that appointment for testing. And we want you to try to do that testing within 24 to 48 hours after you return to Jamaica,” she added. http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Returning_Jamaicans_to_make_appointment_for_testing?profile=1754

Prime Minister Holness said that the administrative reopening of schools will be on September 7, followed by the phased reopening a week later. The Jamaica government has extended until September 30, all the coronavirus (COVID-19) within the Disaster Risk Management Act that also allows for a curfew that begins on Friday night. http://archive.fo/iW7X6

The Jamaica government has extended until September 30, all the coronavirus (COVID-19) within the Disaster Risk Management Act that also allows for a curfew that begins on Friday night. http://archive.fo/iW7X6

The Jamaica government has extended until September 30, all the coronavirus (COVID-19) within the Disaster Risk Management Act that also allows for a curfew that begins on Friday night. http://archive.fo/iW7X6

The Jamaica government has extended until September 30, all the coronavirus (COVID-19) within the Disaster Risk Management Act that also allows for a curfew that begins on Friday night. http://archive.fo/iW7X6

The Jamaica government has extended until September 30, all the coronavirus (COVID-19) within the Disaster Risk Management Act that also allows for a curfew that begins on Friday night. http://archive.fo/iW7X6

The Jamaica government has extended until September 30, all the coronavirus (COVID-19) within the Disaster Risk Management Act that also allows for a curfew that begins on Friday night. http://archive.fo/iW7X6

The Jamaica government has extended until September 30, all the coronavirus (COVID-19) within the Disaster Risk Management Act that also allows for a curfew that begins on Friday night. http://archive.fo/iW7X6

The Jamaica government has extended until September 30, all the coronavirus (COVID-19) within the Disaster Risk Management Act that also allows for a curfew that begins on Friday night. http://archive.fo/iW7X6

Key Policy Responses as of July 14, 2020 FISCAL The Minister of Finance announced tax cuts of around 0.6 percent of GDP, along with targeted measures for up to 0.5 percent of GDP to counteract the effects of COVID19. This is largely expected to be financed by ongoing asset divestment. Additional measures have been announced to support the most affected sectors by the virus and contain labor shedding, including SCT and custom duty waivers on medical supplies and sanitizers and a COVID-19 Allocation of Resources for Employees (CARE) program, which envisages (i) temporary cash transfers to businesses in targeted sectors based on the number of workers employed; (ii) temporary cash transfer to individuals where loss of employment can be verified since March 10; (iii) grants targeted at the most vulnerable segments of society. The Minister also noted that the Fiscal Responsibility law contains an escape clause that would allow for some temporary flexibility in meeting the fiscal targets, should the economic situation deteriorate further. On May 13, the Ministry of Finance tabled in Parliament a Supplementary Budget for FY2020/21 targeting a primary balance of 3.5 percent of GDP to account for the expected revenues shortfalls and necessary spending reallocations as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. http://archive.fo/1b7jd

The overnight policy rate remains unchanged at 0.5 percent, but Bank of Jamaica has taken additional actions to ensure uninterrupted system wide liquidity, with an estimated J$57 billion liquidity injection to date, and removal of limits on the amounts that deposit taking institutions can borrow overnight without being charged a penalty rate and a broadening of the range of acceptable repo collateral. The authorities are also encouraging the banking sector to conserve capital by postponing dividends payments to shareholders reschedule loans and mortgages, in addition to the mortgage rate cuts already announced by the National Housing Trust. http://archive.fo/1b7jd

https://jamcovid19.moh.gov.jm/index.html http://archive.fo/2YIgf

The Government has ordered 16 beaches and 18 rivers across the island to be shut down for two weeks starting August 14, as part of COVID-19 control measures. LINK: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Govt_orders_lockdown_of_34_beaches_and_rivers

The Government has ordered 16 beaches and 18 rivers across the island to be shut down for two weeks starting August 14, as part of COVID-19 control measures. LINK: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Govt_orders_lockdown_of_34_beaches_and_rivers

The Government has ordered 16 beaches and 18 rivers across the island to be shut down for two weeks starting August 14, as part of COVID-19 control measures. LINK: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Govt_orders_lockdown_of_34_beaches_and_rivers

The Government has ordered 16 beaches and 18 rivers across the island to be shut down for two weeks starting August 14, as part of COVID-19 control measures. LINK: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Govt_orders_lockdown_of_34_beaches_and_rivers

The Government has ordered 16 beaches and 18 rivers across the island to be shut down for two weeks starting August 14, as part of COVID-19 control measures. LINK: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Govt_orders_lockdown_of_34_beaches_and_rivers

The Government has ordered 16 beaches and 18 rivers across the island to be shut down for two weeks starting August 14, as part of COVID-19 control measures. LINK: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Govt_orders_lockdown_of_34_beaches_and_rivers

"Market hours are 6:00 am to 7:00 pm Monday-Saturday, with markets closed on Sundays - Zoos and Theme Parks will be open from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. - Parks will be open from 6.00 am to 8.00 pm. - Water parks will remain closed. - Beaches will be open from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm and rivers will be accessible until 8.00 pm. Visitors will have to observe social distancing and not use venues for food and entertainment." https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jamaica/coronavirus

According to the Minister of Education, Youth and Information, there are still debates on how the academic year should begin and whether students should be sent to schools or not. “We are guided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness as we seek to ensure that all students and teachers are safe as schools reopen next month,” according to him. https://moey.gov.jm/covid-19-risk-assessment-assist-informing-decision-reopening-schools