Describing the government’s announcement of a three-phase plan to reopen the country as “risk averse”, the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Commerce says the decision to ban majority businesses from opening could be detrimental to the fate of many business. 

In a statement on Saturday the Chamber said “We recognise that a delicate balance is needed, but we are extremely disappointed and concerned about the potential impact to the ongoing viability of the majority of businesses. The approach outlined will result in increased unemployment, social tension, increased crime and further stress upon our already fragile economy.”

Lamenting that “we needed a response that drives a dual agenda, protecting both lives and livelihood”, the Chamber called on government to “access the required money from the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund (HSF) to support restarting and transforming the economy.”

It further called on government to address the matter urgently, saying “while we have seen governments around the world respond quickly to provide fiscal support to the business community, the Government has, up to now, abdicated its responsibility to address this directly”

In his address, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley said government committed to a phased reopening, adding that elevation to each tier will depend on the precautionary measures taken by citizens at each stage. He said while the orders have been lightly relaxed, social distancing and the wearing of masks must be a part of the “new normal” moving forward.