In a collaborative effort to raise awareness, a COVID-19 Sensitisation Programme was on Friday launched in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) by the Guyana Police Force, the Department of Health and the regional administration.
Region 2 Police Commander Cristal Robinson addressing citizens at Friday’s launch of the COVID-19 Sensitisation Programme in Anna Regina. Also in photo is REO Davanand Ramdatt and other officials from the regional administration
The launching took place at the Car Park in Anna Regina, where CDs, flyers and a public address system were used to educate and inform residents of the dangers of the pandemic and encourage them to follow the COVID-19 guidelines which include wearing a mask, washing hands and social distancing, among others.
Regional Chairperson, Vilma Da Silva told the gathering at the launch that although she recognised the importance of people getting from one place to another for doing businesses, work or any other purposes, they must take into consideration the seriousness of the pandemic and follow the COVID-19 guidelines strictly.
Da Silva praised the frontline workers including the healthcare workers, the police and all those who work on a daily basis to keep the country moving.
Meanwhile, Regional Police Commander, Cristal Robinson told residents that the fight is not the Guyana Police Force’s fight alone but everybody’s fight to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus. She noted that the programme launched will cover the entire Region Two, including the Pomeroon and other riverine areas where boats will be used to do the public announcements.
The Commander went on to note that although 57 persons were already being charged and placed before the courts for breaching the COVID-19 guidelines, persons continue to flout them. It is against this backdrop, she noted that they have decided to take a different approach by educating the public.
“COVID-19 knows no face, no race, no politicians; this is not rich or poor. It’s a worldwide pandemic so we need to safeguard ourselves. This morning we plan to engage the public, educate the public and encourage the public,” Commander Robinson stated.
On the other hand, the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Davanand Ramdatt, said that he will be giving his fullest support to the programme, financially or otherwise, adding that his door at the RDC is always open to assist with this initiative.
The REO further recognised the importance of educating the public rather than penalising them.
The programme is expected to last for three weeks or until all areas in the Region are sensitised.
