The Association for catering establishments strongly supports Minister Fearne’s statement earlier today. ACE insists on the need for its members to support the current positive business vibe, by encouraging among their employees the need to be vaccinated.
In summer 2020, Catering establishments sales were reignited by the introduction of the first batch of Government Vouchers, while the entire world was pinning their hopes on the hopeful discovery of a COVID-19 vaccine that would insulate all from this global pandemic. On the other hand, in Summer 2021, thanks to a very efficient and organised healthcare set up, we boast the highest vaccination rate across the EU, covering 79% of adults with both doses. It is imperative that all those who are reluctant to get jabbed assume their responsibilities bearing in mind that they are doing so to the detriment of the business community in general and their fellow citizens as well.
Restauranteurs are urged to kindly encourage their management and staff to heed the health ministry’s advice in getting vaccinated also. An initiative between Government and business community should be launched to officially recognize business owners whose staff compliment are vaccinated in their majority, as a covid compliant establishment.
With reference to statements by third parties towards Tourism Ministry’s focus on the UK tourist market being a ‘poisoned chalice’, it is important that we keep in mind, that this source market has generated, 650,000 tourists in 2019 which was practically one fourth of the whole touristic presence. Therefore, ACE stresses that while health necessities are necessary, the sustainability of the hospitality sector which employs a labour force of more than 25,000 employees is equally as important as the needs of managing COVID-19 as best we can.
ACE concludes by urging all to be cautious and respect the health ministry’s guidelines, as whilst the second restaurant shut down was a catastrophic blow, a third closure should not ever be considered.