Goodwill to all, very carefully

So we are told there’s to be a five-day relaxation period of the rules regarding COVID-19 precautions over the Christmas period.

A huge misjudgment on the part of the government in my opinion.

The lockdown period, which ended earlier this month, has resulted in a fall in the rate of infection and an R number around 1.

This is to be celebrated since fewer will be infected.

Any relaxation at this critical time is likely to undo this success.

The issue is a simple one: is a traditional Christmas celebration more important than a continuation of the lockdown?

My answer is an emphatic NO.

If our population was predominantly practising Christian (which it isn't, there being only around a million regular churchgoers) there might be just, but only just, a legitimate reason for relaxation.

Even so December 25 is an entirely arbitrary date having no historical evidence so those intent on celebrating Christmas should delay until COVID-19 is well on the wane or until at least 90 per cent of the population has been vaccinated.

The desire to travel, mix with families and party should not have priority.

It is a matter of regret that the hospitality industry has suffered greatly since March and of course I sympathise with those workers laid off and those businesses suffering, however they should seek ways of dealing with the situation, as has the retail sector.

In conclusion we must not nullify recent success in combating COVID-19 for the sake of five days feasting, drinking and partying.