Curfew is to control the movement of people – Waqainabete

Minister for Health, Doctor Ifereimi Waqainabete says part of Fiji’s layered approach to COVID-19 are restrictions and the role of a curfew is to control the movement of people.

Waqainabete says breaches in quarantine facilities have happened in countries all over the world because people would go out to buy something, have a good time, or to see their family.

He says an example is if nightclubs were open 24 hours in the Nadi area, there could be breaches by people in quarantine facilities who would feel like going out.

Waqainabete adds all different layers contribute to the containment of COVID-19 in the country.

However, SODELPA parliamentarian, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu says there is no scientific evidence to prove that by forcing people to stay home between 11pm and 4am will help in containing COVID-19.

Lalabalavu urges the government to review the nationwide curfew.

Waqainabete says Fiji has shown its strength in containing COVID-19 and has attracted the support of development partners.

He reminds people that it does not mean the country will stop having COVID-19 once people start to receive the vaccines.

Waqainabete adds Fiji’s layered approach also include the quarantine process, the robust testing mechanism, disciplinary forces managing quarantine facilities, personal protective equipment, designated isolation facilities and its equipment.