Some city businesses still operating despite COVID-19 restrictions
Although the police have recently moved to enforce the COVID-19 restrictions on the operations of nonessential businesses, a number of city stores are continuing to operate but with a number of adjustments.
During a survey of Regent Street yesterday, Stabroek News observed approximately 70 percent of the businesses in operations.
However, some business owners conducted their transactions with customers via windows, while some had their doors fully opened for customers.
A business owner, who asked not to be named, said business on Regent Street went from “150% to 50%” in the past few months and added that with little profits some businesses are losing hope.
He said he believed the major issue in Guyana is survival and hoped for someone to step up and do the right thing.
A small business owner, who also asked not to be named, said the “place slow” and noted that the country needs to reopen and allow the Cubans to come in so earnings can increase. He is hoping for things to revert to the norm very soon. To protect himself, he said, “I got my sanitiser and I wear my mask.”
Marcel Daniels, a customer, said “things are not the same due to COVID19.”
However, he believes that persons should be concerned at this stage and follow the health advice given to protect themselves.
Previously, Stabroek News reported that ranks from Division 4(A), which stretches from Agricola to Cummings Lodge, took to the streets of central Georgetown to issue warnings to businesses that were not essential but were still in operation.
The “emergency measures” in place were effected under an order in the name of Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence pursuant to an earlier direction by President David Granger, given under the Public Health Ordinance. The measures, which were first implemented on March 16, are in effect until June 3, but was recently extended to June 17th, 2020.
Also included is a countrywide lockdown with a 6 pm to 6 am curfew and a restriction on services except for those deemed essential.