FEDHASA welcomes the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa during his State of the Nation Address on 30 May that the Government is increasing efforts to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa, while simultaneously ensuring that these measures are not to the further detriment of the economy.
FEDHASA is glad that Government has heeded the hospitality industry’s plea to not introduce more severe restrictions, which would make it financially unviable for many in the hospitality industry to continue operating, especially off a base where the industry is already in a compromised position.
No new restrictions placed on the trade of alcohol is a great relief. The value chain with respect to sale and distribution of alcohol is so vast – from manufacturing workers all the way to the end of the value chain, being workers in hospitality. Restrictions to the sale and distribution of alcohol has such a major significant economic effect on the country when introduced.
While no restrictions have been put on the sale and distribution of alcohol, FEDHASA would like to again call on the industry and consumers to assist Government in its efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and adhere to the relevant protocols and regulations.
Highlights of the President’s address are:
· Cabinet has decided that the country will be placed on Adjusted Alert Level 2 with effect from today (31 May 2021)
· The hours of curfew will start at 11pm and end at 4am.
· It remains mandatory for every person to wear a face mask that covers the nose and mouth at all times when in public spaces. It is a criminal offence not to do so.
· Funerals remain restricted to no more than 100 people, and, as before, night vigils, after- funeral gatherings and ‘after-tears’ gatherings are not allowed.
Read the President’s full address, here. To view the updated regulations, click here.
