Negative PCR tests required to utilise Guyana-Suriname ferry service

The Government is resuming the regular ferry service between Moleson Creek, Corentyne and South Drain, Suriname from Sunday and persons travelling would be required to produce a negative PCR test, in keeping with the gazetted measures.

During the daily COVID-19 update, Minister of Health, Hon. Dr Frank Anthony said once a negative result is presented within the 72-hour timeframe, travellers would be allowed to enter the country.

“If that test is more than 72 hours, the person will have to do another PCR on arrival. Those arrangements are going to be put in place at the Port so when people come across, they will have to go through the normal types of screening where we will check their PCR tests. We will do the temperature checks and so forth, and once we are satisfied, they will be allowed to go.”

In keeping with the measures, travellers would have to be quarantined while awaiting their results.

On Thursday, the Government announced the resumption of a regular ferry service between the two countries.  The ferry will depart Guyana at approximately 9:00am and will return by 1:00pm. It will operate every Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday until further notice.

The announcement from the Ministry of Public Works stated that due to the pandemic, only Guyanese and Surinamese will be allowed to utilise the service.  However, diplomatic residents would be facilitated upon request through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of both countries.

It was noted that all COVID-19 measures, including the observing of social distancing on board and in the terminal building would be observed.

Guyanese can undergo PCR testing at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory and Eureka Medical Laboratory in Guyana, while Guyanese in Suriname can be tested at Suriname’s Public Hospital and the MeDiLab in Paramaribo.

The MB Sandaka will be used while the MV Canawaima undergoes maintenance works in Paramaribo.