Deputy Health Minister, Dr Bernard Okoe-Boye, has proposed the introduction of spot fines for persons who defy the directive of wearing face mask.

He said the fines against people who fail to put on the nose mask will be a preventive measure for the spread of the coronavirus and will also be a deterrent to others.

“If you have a thousand people who are not wearing masks it’s because people assume that if you don’t wear it, it comes with no consequences. If you ask one person to pay GH¢50 or GH¢100 and it is known that someone was charged…for not wearing the mask people will fall in line,” he told Class FM.

He added: “There is a difference between knowledge acquisition and behavioural change. When you see someone not wearing the mask it doesn’t mean he hasn’t been informed that wearing the mask is good for you. Humans beings by nature because we exercise freedom, sometimes we decide to do what we like and that is why it’s important to have laws.”

The Health Ministry in April directed the public, especially food vendors, commercial vehicle drivers and other selected group of individuals, to always wear face mask as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

The Ministry also directed the use of face masks in all public places where social distancing will be difficult.

“The Minister of Health hereby directs the use of face masks in all public places where it may be difficult to maintain social distancing. The general public is encouraged to wear mask or face covering when going out whether sick or not or attending to a sick person. Incorrect use of face mask carries a high risk of infection,” the directive said.

Dr Oko-Boye also told Class FM on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 that the masks have proven to be very effective in containing the spread of the virus.