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Fine increase approved for quarantine breaches

Published:Friday | October 30, 2020 | 12:16 AM

GEORGE TOWN:

The Government of this British overseas territory has made amendments to the Public Health Law that will see residents being fined CI$10,000 and up to two years in prison if they breach home-isolation regulations implemented to fight COVID-19.

Legislators recently approved the amendments that have led to an increase in the fine from CI$1,000 to CI$10,000 and the prison term from six months to two years.

Additionally, a continuing offence after conviction incurs a fine of CI$500 for each day of infraction.

The law changes, piloted by Health Minister Dwayne Seymour, were approved last Friday on their second reading in the Legislative Assembly.

The amended legislation will now move to committee stage before passage.

Under Cayman’s border-reopening plans, approved travellers have the option of isolating at their homes once their residences are cleared by government.

As part of the agreement to home quarantine, travellers have to wear an electronic monitoring wristband.