RADHICA DE SILVA
Not all bars will be opened this week even though the government has given the green light for the serving of alcohol in-house to fully-vaccinated customers.
Speaking to Guardian Media yesterday, president of the Barkeepers and Operators Association of T&T Satesh Moonesar said many customers are fasting for Divali and will not come to the bars to drink.
He also said in some areas where there is a high population of Hindus, bar owners had decided to stay closed.
On Saturday, Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh yesterday confirmed bars and restaurants have clearance from Monday to serve alcohol for customers to consume on the premises.
“We will still have a 50 per cent limit capacity and we are appealing to bar owners to take charge and ensure that all protocols are upheld,” he said. Asked what was in place to manage customers if they become intoxicated and unruly, Moonesar said it was important for bar owners to make sure that customers follow protocols.
He noted that since the start of the pandemic, thousands of people in the bar industry went out of business. However, he said the establishments have continued operating with new owners.
Saying it will take time for businesses to pick up, Moonesar expressed happiness that the reopening had restarted allowing some people to get back on with their lives.
“We are prepared and it is some time now we have been asking for a return to some sense of normalcy. Yes, we will still have restrictions, but it is a step in the right direction,” he added.
He said proper health guidelines should be established for safe zones and customers must show proof of vaccination in order to be served in-house.
The reopening of bars is in keeping with the rollout of safe zones for vaccinated people. The first rollout took effect on October 11 when restaurants were allowed to reopen for vaccinated people only.
