The Latvian Association of Bars invites the government to support the proposals developed by the Ministry of Economy for the reduction of epidemiological restrictions, says the association’s board member and Pūce night club co-owner Oskars Ikstens.
«The proposal presented by the Ministry of Economy provides for the cancellation of the open hours, area and customer flow control restrictions starting from 1 March. This is, essentially, tossing a rope at the last moment to save bars and the entertainment industry, who have almost sunk,» mentions Ikstens.
He also notes that with its rigid restrictions for culture and entertainment industry, Latvia has fallen behind its Baltic neighbours.
«It is important for Latvia to be able to offer its foreign guests services on par with its neighbours once the tourist season starts. Otherwise tourism industry, which took decades to build and which has experienced multiple shocks already will be completely destroyed. It is important for politicians to understand that the ministry’s proposed exit plan is the only option to breathe life into an industry that’s barely breathing as it is,» said Ikstens.
The association notes that in the last two years bars and night clubs have been on the brink of survival. «Countless entertainment venues were forced into bankruptcy because of the pandemic. Barmen and waiters were forced to leave and seek new jobs. Streets, once vibrant and lively, became silent. Our closest neighbours have already decided to lift some of their restrictions,» the association noted.
The Association of Latvia Bars invites the prime minister, ministers and the parliament to reduce restrictions on gatherings and approve the proposed list of measures for a rational exit from the state of emergency.
«The association supports the proposals developed by Minister of Economy Jānis Vitenbergs and his team and considers them an effective plan for the recovery of the economy and restart of operations,» the association notes.
Read also: Minister of Culture: Latvia can relax about summer festivals – there will be no restrictions
As previously reported, the Cabinet of Ministers plans to reach an agreement on the exit plan at the 15 February meeting of the government.
Latvian association of bars supports reducing epidemiological restrictions
