During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all eager to carry on with our lives and livelihoods. Unfortunately we are not operating in a “business as usual” situation. There are special rules that apply to us all during this crisis. Some of those rules are embodied in the Public Health Regulations, which are intended to prevent, control and suppress the transmission of COVID-19. All violations are being strictly enforced by the RCIPS. To that end, only essential businesses are allowed to operate at this time.
What Does “Essential Business” Mean?
Essential businesses are those which have been permitted to serve the public after applying for an exemption, namely:
- Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas/filling stations, minimarts and convenience stores, and liquor stores from 6am to 7pm.
- Banks, credit unions and building societies may operate from 9am to 4pm.
- Restaurants can produce food for take-out and delivery. Takeout must be picked up by 7pm and food delivery must be complete by 10pm.
- Post Office, money remittance facilities (6am to 6pm), and such other public places as may be specified by the Competent Authority.
Other examples of essential businesses are:
- those performing vital tasks such as water/gas delivery
- those unloading and transporting cargo
- news media
- taxis
- emergency veterinary services
- licensed security guard businesses.
Business Solely Operating for Delivery, or Collection & Delivery
- Car dealerships (delivery)
- Grocery & produce (delivery)
- Laundromat (collection & delivery)
- Mail or parcel courier service (delivery)
- Pet grooming (collection & delivery)
- Retail stores (delivery)
Mobile Business Operation
- Grounds maintenance, landscaping, gardening services
- Mobile car wash services
- Mobile tyre repair services
- Pool maintenance
If those businesses have applied for an exemption, and received a permit, they are allowed to operate - subject to the provisions of the regulations.
Employees of these essential businesses need to be issued with a letter from their employer, stating that they are an essential staff member.
All of the above must first request an exemption.
- The Port Authority handles its own exemptions. Email: exemptions@caymanport.com
- Medical appointments are not restricted to the soft curfew day.
- If a person driving a vulnerable individual (not a minor) for a medical reason, they should request an exemption.
- Emergency repair/service to homes/commercial property: The company proposing to undertake the repair must submit a request, accompanied by the owner’s request for consideration.
