‘Welcome the reopening of the tourism industry on 1 June. Awaits anxiously the reopening of restaurants’ – MHRA

The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) reiterates its satisfaction that Government confirmed through the press conference by Prime Minister Dr Robert Abela that on 1st June 2021, Malta will open up for tourism. 

MHRA continues to support a prudent and gradual removal of the restrictive measures as this summer season is crucial for the survival of hotels, restaurants, and the tourism sector as a whole.  Indeed, the majority of MHRA members have suffered tremendous losses in the last 12 months and therefore the only way to survive such difficult situation is that the tourism sector reopens as soon as possible.

MHRA appreciates the efforts being done by Government to vaccinate our people in the shortest time possible and welcomes the announcement that vouchers will be soon issued to further support the economic recovery of those economic sectors which were badly hit by the pandemic.

MHRA, however, is disappointed that there is no target date yet announced as to when restaurants will re-open. Whilst data is what the country needs to be directed by, nevertheless a target date for the reopening of restaurants would have been highly encouraging and very important as the reopening of our operations need adequate time for preparation and pre-planning. MHRA therefore appeals to Government to communicate before 26th April when restaurants can reopen. 

Furthermore, MHRA also appeals to the general public to be responsible and appreciate how critical is the reopening of the tourism sector for the summer season not only for employers and employees in this sector but for the whole Maltese economy as a whole.