Mass events where individuals are not in control of their actions not commendable

While welcoming the announcement made by government on Thursday evening about the introduction of clearer protocols for the management of mass events, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry feels that the attraction of crowds that would not be capable of keeping themselves and locals safe in the context of the pandemic, is imprudent.

Earlier last week, The Malta Chamber said that it was “not against the organisation of mass events, as long as these are organised in a responsible fashion and are able to manage responsible crowds, taking into consideration all safeguards and mitigation measures of social distancing and hygiene”. In its statement, the Malta Chamber also clearly noted that “short of that, such events should be called off”.

The Malta Chamber also added: “Events attracting a foreign crowd that derive from higher risk jurisdictions cannot be approved unconditionally.”

The Malta Chamber’s position remains. The holding of mass events, especially when hundreds of individuals are not in complete control of their actions because of the effect of alcohol consumption, is not commendable. In the same way that festa band marches have been suspended, such mass events ought to follow the same route.

The Malta Chamber has always called for clear guidelines for businesses to follow, to ensure public health and safety for all. The announcement made last week, certainly contributes towards this. Business and safety go hand in hand.

In April of this year, The Malta Chamber submitted a holistic view to government, towards an exit strategy from the partial lockdown, with measured steps that were complementary to different sectors of society and the economy.

The Malta Chamber reproposes these measures for the country to observe, if it is to sustain a quick and healthy recovery out of COVID. Notable progress was observed when people cooperated with the sensible guidelines they were given and this progress and sacrifice must not be jeopardised or even wasted.