The anticipation of the re-opening of a number of outlets particularly in the hospitality and restaurant sector takes centre stage in today’s Editorials.
The Times of Malta looks at the prospects of the hotels and restaurant sector this Summer, arguing that such businesses should look beyond Government support in trying to revive their fortunes. The paper has scanned some hotel websites and found out that the prices being quote are still on the levels of last year. They should rather be encouraging local tourists who after spending months in lockdown might be attracted with the idea of spending some time in a local hotel, if costs are reasonable.
Business Today takes a cautious approach but generally welcomes the easing of restrictions applicable from tomorrow, given the necessary control and mitigation measures. The Editor argues that vigilance, testing, identification of suspect cases and isolation remain important tools to manage the pandemic well and they must not be set aside. Within this context, it makes sense that the reopening of restaurants, hairdressers, beauticians, barbers, hotels and outdoor pools came with strict protocols to ensure that social distancing and good hygiene levels are maintained.
The Independent is not too convinced with the authorities’ strategy with regards to the re-opening of a number of outlets. The Editor notes a significant discrepancy between the words of the Prime Minister, who said that officers will mostly focus on education rather than strict observation of a few rules, on the next day, authorities published a myriad of documentation, with the Tourism Minister warning that outlets stand to lose their licencing for repeated offences.
L-Orizzont welcomes the easing of restrictions which come into effect as from tomorrow, describing this moment as a return to better quality of life. The Editor expresses conviction that such decisions have been taken after long discussions and analysis with the relevant experts.
In-Nazzjon pushes for a stronger role for the wider community including the Opposition and Parliament in the drawing up of plans for the re-start of Malta’s economy. The Editor insists that the re-opening of the economy will not solve the current challenges from one day to the next, and it is for this reason that an open-ended discussion needs to take place on the next steps.
