Covid19 may stop Borough Day

WITH TT recording its first coronavirus case and given the pandemic declaration by the World Health Organisation (WHO), Point Fortin mayor Kennedy Richards Jr said consideration may have to be given to cancelling its 40th Borough Day celebrations.

The month-long celebration, scheduled to begin from April 11 and end on May 3, usually attracts a large contingent of returning nationals – some from countries that have already recorded covid19 cases and deaths.

In an interview, Richards said the borough is in the process of planning a special edition for this year’s 40th anniversary.

However, he said the organisers were prepared to shelve all plans at a moment’s notice if so advised by the health authorities.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Roshan Parasram has already spoken about the possibility of restricting large gatherings as a precaution.

“We are planning the borough celebrations as normal. Right now we are considering whether to have it or postpone it.

"It’s a bit too early for us to say we not having it. It is a bit too premature but we do have a cut off date in mind and once that time arises, if the need be, we would either say no Borough Day celebrations this year or full speed ahead.

“We are monitoring the situation daily and we are speaking with the relevant authorities."

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh confirmed on Thursday that of the 51 individuals tested locally there has been one confirmed isolated case. The patient was said to be a 52-year old man who travelled from Switzerland.

Richards said being a young councillor, and this being his first opportunity to plan the celebration as mayor, he was quite excited, but assured, “We are not going to put anybody’s life at risk.”

He said he would be saddened if thereby anniversary had to be shelved.

He said lots of foreigners are attracted to the festival, initially conceptualised as a platform to give residents an opportunity for economic development, and the largest national event outside Carnival.

“We are looking at the virus, which has negative implications for our economy and the world economy, but we are taking all the necessary precautions. Our medical officer of health will be doing a presentation for us at the council pretty soon. We are liaising with all stakeholders, the chief medical officer and the Minister of Health, and we will make a sound and total decision soon,” Richards said.