Facilities shut down nationwide

THE use of all sporting facilities in the country has been suspended for four weeks as the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF) takes preventative measures over the coronavirus.
PNGSF executive director Peter Tsiamalili Jr said the decision was not taken lightly as Papua New Guineans were passionate about sports.
“At this time of the year when when the world is shocked by the coronavirus spread and fighting to control the spread of the pandemic, we as a nation must also prepare to take necessary preventive measures,” he said in a statement.
“The nation is preparing to manage the virus. It is everyone’s responsibility to observe good hygiene as part of the preventive measures against this threat.
“Therefore, in tune with the prime minister’s address to the nation and his recommendations to limit mass gatherings and encouraging social distance, PNGSF, in consultation with national federations, and the Health Department have made the decision as part of the preventive measures in the usage of the sporting venues that are managed by the foundation.
“We had a meeting with representatives from national federations, PNG Olympic Committee and other stakeholders at the Bisini Sports Precinct and the recommendation to suspend sports for 30 days was fully endorsed by those present.
“I’d like to announce to the public, clubs, national federations and the sporting fraternity that the use of all government sporting facilities in Port Moresby and throughout the country is suspended for 30 days until such time PNGSF completes a risk assessment with health officials on the preparedness of our team and affiliates to deal with the coronavirus.
“Mass gatherings through sporting activities are highly visible events with the potential for serious public health consequences if they are not planned and managed carefully,” he said.
“It is also evident that mass gatherings can amplify the spread of infectious diseases and it is incumbent on my team to take this preventative approach.
“My team’s preparedness to control this global pandemic is an unprecedented community challenge which requires everyone’s support and response.
“Once we are satisfied with our preparations in terms of our sporting affiliates’ management capacity and necessary standard operating procedures to manage the threat, then we will announce the opening of our venues.
“The situation is still fluid and I appeal to all sports and the public to be content and appreciative as we navigate through these uncertain times.”