The Pitcairn Islands, a British overseas territory in the Pacific Ocean, have decided to lift their mask mandate after only one day of implementation. The mandate, which was introduced on Monday, required all residents and visitors to wear face masks in public places, as a precaution against the COVID-19 pandemic.
The mandate was met with resistance and confusion by the islanders, who number only 47 and live in a remote and isolated location. They said that they have not seen any cases of COVID-19 on their islands, and that they do not have any contact with the outside world. They also said that they do not have enough masks for everyone, and that they find them uncomfortable and unnecessary.
The island’s governor, Laura Clarke, who is based in New Zealand, said that she imposed the mandate as a preventive measure, following the advice of the World Health Organization. She said that she wanted to protect the islanders from the potential risk of infection, and to prepare them for the possible arrival of tourists and visitors.
However, after receiving numerous complaints and protests from the islanders, Clarke decided to revoke the mandate on Tuesday. She said that she respected the islanders’ wishes and opinions, and that she hoped that they would remain safe and healthy.
The islanders celebrated the lifting of the mandate by throwing a party, where they burned their masks and hugged each other. They said that they are happy and relieved, and that they do not need masks to enjoy their lives.