Published on Tuesday, 17 March 2020 at 4:36:17 PM
The Town of Port Hedland continues to take direction and advice from relevant State and Federal Government agencies during the ongoing global development of the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
As of 17 March, there are 31 confirmed cases of Coronavirus COVID-19 in WA, no reported cases in regional WA and 6582 people in the state who have tested negative to the virus.
The Pilbara Ports Authority (PPA) website states that it is strictly adhering to protocols stipulated by the Australian Border Force and the Department of Health.
The crew onboard ships arriving within 14 days are not granted shore leave until the 14 day period has elapsed. If any crew member is reported as sick, the Department of Health stipulates onboard isolation procedures until negative test results are obtained.
Hon. Commissioner Fred Riebeling AM JP said the Town intends to continue monitoring the unfolding situation and will work with all relevant government agencies.
“During these uncertain times I implore everyone in the community to be kind and work together in the best interests of public health.
“We remain concerned about the scale and severity of this pandemic, and the critical role we play in keeping members of our community safe and informed moving forward.
“According to the PPA website, the organisation is following strict protocols when directing the actions of all ship crew members. The port of Port Hedland is the world’s largest bulk exporting port which significantly impacts the national economy; therefore, we believe any decisions regarding port operations must be measured and informed by relevant government agencies.
“Recent national media reporting unfairly characterised the port as posing a risk to the spread of Coronavirus COVID-19, failing to mention the strict health protocols followed by PPA and mining export companies during this time.
“The Town is continuing to ensure our public facilities are sanitised to a very high standard. We urge anyone who is displaying the symptoms of fever, cough, shortness of breath or a sore throat to self-isolate and seek advice from their GP.
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