Barbados’ health authorities report generally good compliance by the public with the covid-19 protocols during the Christmas weekend but there’s concern over incidents where people, many of them tourists, were seen partying without wearing masks.
A video has been making the rounds on social media showing a large crowd at Second Street, Holetown, St. James on Christmas Eve night.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George, urges continued adherence to the covid-19 protocols.
Meantime, Frederick Hoyos, the owner of James Town Bar, one of the businesses in the Holetown area tells Starcom Network News his business tries to strictly comply with the protocols and has on the spot covid-19 tests for patrons who don’t have vaccination cards or proof of a recent test.
But he notes it’s difficult to control what happens in the street.
He adds that businesses in the area are glad to see the return of tourists in significant numbers and the resulting upturn in business after a difficult year.
The Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry is also urging compliance with the protocols, especially due to the threat from the new Omicron variant.
BCCI President, Anthony Branker, looking towards the New Year, notes that 2021 was a challenging year for business and the private sector will be focussed in 2022 on ensuring continued recovery.
