Parties are not adhering to COVID-19 protocols

Some parties that have occurred since the implementation of new curfew times have demonstrated a lack of compliance with COVID-19 regulations. Footage from social media indicate that Elite Saturdays, hosted at Meca in Marketplace is one of those parties that were overcrowded, with patrons not wearing masks.

Tamika Campbell, who went to Elite, said the venue was packed and overflowing, “[The party] hot and humid because everyone was squeezed in like sardines, though they did have social distancing stickers on the floor…after a while they weren’t visible.” Additionally, Campbell mentioned that she did not recall seeing any sanitization exercises at Elite.

However, Campbell also attended an event at the restaurant 100, called Grand 5, “At 100 there was space to social distance and people stayed in their groups except at the bar”. Campbell also added that the security at 100 sanitised the patrons upon entry.

“The parties were not safe at all, the majority of people don’t wear masks because they’re constantly drinking,” said Campbell.

Another party-goer, who asked to be unnamed, also shared a similar experience to that at Elite. She said the party was packed ‘like a sardine tin’. She noted that she also went to 4/20 Hookah Lounge, which she said “Is kind of a club after hours…heavy club vibes”. She mentioned that both venues were full, and even though patrons had to wear masks upon entry, they were not required to wear them within the venue. “There were no other protocols enforced,” said the party-goer.

Senior Superintendent of Police Stephanie Lindsay said police are doing the usual enforcement to ensure that COVID-19 regulations are being adhered to at parties. “We are holding the people who are promoting these events accountable, as well as the patrons,” said Lindsay. She said that when promoters were given permits for the parties, they signed on to agree to observe the protocols of the Disaster Risk Management Act. She noted that all permits included a recommendation of what was expected at the events and proprietors, “would have to ensure that they protect their interests and investment”.

Lindsay added that there were not enough resources for constant patrolling and supervision of these parties. “We don’t have enough police officers to be going to every single event to be checking to see if people are complying with the law,” said Lindsay. She noted that if the promoters do not comply with their permits, and the regulations, they would simply be sanctioned.