This country’s private sector is warning that an extended lock down would be devastating for businesses and the economy overall and might result in even more layoffs.

This grim pronouncement from business leaders after minister of health and wellness Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic told the Nation News paper that unless the country brings down the COVID-19 positivity rate by next week, his ministry is likely to recommend to cabinet an extension of the current 15-day lockdown.

Chairman of the Barbados Private Sector Association Edward Clarke is appealing to the country as a whole to cooperate with government to try to help bring the COVID-19 situation here under control.

Mr. Clarke is calling for the harshest possible crackdown on those who violate the protocols.

Past President of the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Eddie Abed, also believe the consequences of an extended lock down would be dire.