City proposes business flexibility

THE CITY HAS proposed that certain businesses be allowed more flexibility during the Covid-19 pandemic to avoid further economic challenges.

A letter has been written to the Minister of Trade and Industry, requesting a reassessment of which businesses should be allowed to operate.

Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Opportunities and Asset Management, James Vos, said: “The proposal of easing certain and specific restrictions in order to keep the economy going will ensure that we’re better positioned to deal with the major economic challenges that lie ahead once the virus is brought under control.”

Vos said the measures put in place to contain the spread of the virus are commended “and we will fully cooperate, however we need to be mindful that it’s potentially economically unsustainable and could ultimately lead to more disastrous unintended economic consequences.

“The proposals I’ve made have been designed to ensure all health protocols are still maintained, while allowing certain businesses to operate, generate income, keep staff and pay salaries,” he said.

Among some of the requests made were that highly automated manufacturing businesses should be allowed to return to full capacity, with additional focus on their ability to adapt and produce health-care items.

“The World Health Organization advises that the likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is low. The risk of catching the virus from a physical package is also very low. On that basis, we have requested restrictions on e-commerce be eased to allow for all electronic equipment to be sold and delivered. This would assist with virtual or remote communication, business functioning and all e-learning initiatives,” the City said.

Another request was to lift restrictions on take-away businesses and restaurants offering a pick-up service.

“Licences to operate should be issued where efforts are made to ensure food preparation and packaging are hygienic, Covid-19-conscious and in line with usual food safety practices.

“Protocols in terms of collection, such as telephonic orders, staggered collections and queue management, should be implemented,” it said.