Wearing of masks is mandatory for anyone that considers getting on a public transport from today.

This was the statement made by Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services Dr James Fong yesterday.

Dr Fong emphasised that all bus drivers, minibus drivers and taxi drivers should wear a mask and would not allow riders who do not wear a mask to enter their vehicles.

He said the Land Transport Authority will be monitoring all public transportation drivers.

“Those who are not wearing masks won’t be allowed to drive,” Dr Fong said.

“Passengers who are not wearing masks will be removed from public transport vehicles. If abuse is repeated, the LTA will stop some of these public transport vehicles altogether.”

Dr Fong said buses and minibuses should ensure strict physical distancing among passengers.

He said for businesses, customers should never be allowed to enter the premises unless they are masked.

“The staff of these businesses should be leading by example by wearing masks and wearing them properly.

“We will shut down businesses that are not enforcing mask-wearing for customers and employees and for all businesses and in all public transportation vehicles, all patrons must also have careFIJI downloaded on their phones and must keep it switched on.

“If they don’t have a phone, their contact tracing details must be registered.”

He said maskless crowds were hotspots waiting to happen.

“If you are wearing your mask below your nose, it is no longer a mask, it is a mouthguard.

“Masks work best when everyone wears them right. But they are not a substitute for physical distancing. As much as possible, we must still keep two-metres of space between us and others, even when we are wearing masks.”

Edited by Selita Rabuku 

Feedback: fonua.talei@fijisun.com.fj