In recent weeks, our country has experienced a significant spike in COVID-19 infections, which has been ascribed largely to social gatherings, a lack of observance with the measures in place and the circulation of the new and highly infectious UK variant. The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry highlights the need for greater discipline and enforcement to curb this latest trend without having to resort to lockdowns as other countries have been forced to do. More responsibility will also lighten the burden on the country’s healthcare workers, who have been working tirelessly to control the situation. This responsibility should be carried by all members of society.
Now is not the time to become complacent. The roll-out of the vaccine should not be a reason for us to let down our guard. The developments in Europe and the rest of the world have shown that this is a turning point in the pandemic and we cannot and must not be guided by this false sense of security. The vaccine surely is a step towards curbing this pandemic, yet we still have a long road ahead.
Further restrictive measures would be detrimental to our economy, which is facing one of its biggest challenges yet. The Chamber believes that if we all join forces we can lead the way to recovery. Every effort, no matter how small, has a significant impact. Therefore, the Malta Chamber urges its members and the business community at large to do their part by strictly observing the mitigation measures in the workplace and offering teleworking wherever possible. Only those workers who have no other option but to work on site should be asked to do so. Any social gatherings should be avoided, both in the workplace and beyond.
It is essential that we all assume our responsibility to safeguard the health and well-being of the community, which is imperative for recovery.
