Why wasn’t there any consultation with the private sector?
Thats the question being asked by President of the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Richie Sookhai, following the strict measures imposed by the Prime Minister on Thursday.
The PM announced that all restaurants, bars, malls, places of worship, gyms, fitness centres as well as spas, hairdressing and beauty places, casinos, cinemas, theatres and clubs, will be closed until May 23rd.
Sookhai said there was no consultation with the private sector before the Prime Minister made decisions that affected them.
He told GML that “While we understand the necessary measures that the State must take in terms of enforcing further lockdowns, we do believe some of the measures taken against restaurants are a bit stringent and could be re-examined.”
Sookhai said that restaurants were operating under the social distancing regulations and were “already struggling” only now to face complete closure.
“While we understand the need to reduce congregations, the kitchens can remain open for curbside or takeaway.”
Sookhai also asked why a curfew system was not considered for restaurants instead.
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