Society: No need to extend SOE

THE Catholic Professionals Society PNG does not want the Government to impose any more extensions to the state of emergency (SOE) after it ends in two weeks.
President Paul Harricknen, while commending the Government and Parliament for the precautionary measures taken, said that there was no need to extend the SOE any further.
“While we are to keep vigilance and maintenance of the basic rules of observances with much awareness already in place, we are of the view that there is no need to continue the SOE,” he said.
“While the world community is still experiencing tragic deaths and sufferings from this unseen enemy, we in PNG have been blessed and lucky but by no means does it mean for us to be complacent.”
Harricknen said the main focus on restrictions should now turn to the entry points and borders from the air, sea and the ground while observing good health and hygiene practices.
“It will be irresponsible for us to continue receiving funds and personal protective equipment (PPEs) from donors (both local and international) and continue to subject our people to more restrictions and tests running the risk of unforeseen implications,” he said
“We have no deaths yet from the Covid-19 but we are already experiencing staggering social, educational and economic impact in our livelihood and businesses.”
“Keeping social distance, wearing face masks and washing hands with soap and water and sanitising does not need an SOE,” he said.