Readers’Views

Taverns and parties inevitably become superspreader venues

The article “SAB booze squad fights alcohol ban” (January 10 ) refers. Irresponsible drinking results in trauma wards full of booze-related injuries and overcrowded beds that would otherwise be reserved for

Covid patients.

Furthermore, the booze parties which inevitably occur in these times are superspreaders as there is no social distancing at all.

In addition, taverns are places where there is literally shoulder-toshoulder mixing. This also is a superspreader.

I don’t support a booze ban, but unless we ensure protocol is observed, a temporary restriction is welcome. Lungy Mnyanda, on businessLIVE

An additional tax on alcohol would have been the answer.

This tax could be used fund the effects of alcohol on crime, hospitals and Covid-19.

Martin Engelbrecht, on businessLIVE

It’s not the car that causes damage — it is the driver.

I don’t drink — never have, never will — but alcohol is not the problem. It’s undisciplined people.

Philip Jansen, on businessLIVE

Govt should share insurance costs

Two points to add colour to the picture, “Gloves off in fight over Covid claims” (Newsmaker, January 10).

Insurers provide cover for events where the losses of the few are paid for by the many — a basic principle of insurance.

Where 100% of your policyholders can claim simultaneously, the system breaks down.

A government decision to shut the economy down should see the government sharing the economic consequences on businesses with insurers.

This is a sustainable solution. Miles Japhet, on businessLIVE

Who’s behind IS in Mozambique?

The question here is, who is supporting the Islamic State insurgents, “Total’s Mozambique retreat a blow to area’s economy” (January 10)?

They are well funded and organised and seem to have local political support. All that costs a lot of money.

They would also have to have the capacity to operate the liquid natural gas (LNG) plant after takeover and have a buyer for the product. This would be a buyer who would not have a problem purchasing LNG deeply tainted due to the circumstances of the takeover.

There is only one country that checks all of these boxes. Ya Well Nie, on businessLIVE