HOW THE EXTENDED SoE WOULD HURT BUSINESS

PRIME Minister Dr. Keith Rowley says his Government sees lives and livelihoods as two separate matters. 

True to form, Dr. Rowley did not speak in Parliament of losses being suffered to people’s livelihoods as a result of the national State of Emergency, which has been extended by three months. 

But the so-called night-time economy – including hospitality, recreation, gaming, entertainment, informal and other sectors – have been hobbled by being closed since last May. 

There would be further losses to livelihoods with the extended SoE and 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew. 

Certain casino proprietors are reportedly considering shutting down operations and moving to Guyana and other regional territories. 

Dr. Rowley said he had no data to present, but international studies have revealed that the night-time economy is worth about 10 percent of Gross Domestic Product. 

In the United States, Britain and other countries, there are official statistics on business closures, increased unemployment and other tangible ways in which livelihoods have been affected.  

In Trinidad and Tobago, the curfew has seriously hurt restaurants, cafes, gyms, nightclubs, vendors, entertainers, vendors, taxi drivers, auto care and more. 

Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations and other retail operations have been made to close as early as 6 p.m., and send home workers. 

There are no statistics on the number of job losses and businesses becoming insolvent, and the Government disputes all data that are presented publicly. 

But there is a miserable story from closed shop fronts and tales of small entrepreneurs and workers unable to service loans or sustain their families. 

Banks are facing increased year-on-year non-performing loans. 

The Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce routinely stays mum even as members shut down their businesses. 

But the Chamber appealed – in vain – for the curfew to begin later than 9 p.m. 

The Manufacturers’ Association is also reserved, but some members usually operate a second or even a third shift in the final months of the year because of increased demand at Christmas time. 

Several countries in Europe and elsewhere have relaxed or removed emergency measures and are relying on strict health regulations in order to curb the spread of the deadly Covid-19 virus.  

T&T’s economy would almost assuredly emerge weaker at the end of the SoE and curfew, with more businesses falling by the wayside and employees joining the breadline. 

With higher unemployment and less available money spending more, the commercial sector could anticipate a rough ride when the emergency provisions are eventually lifted. 

As for exporters, they would doubtlessly find that international clients have found other providers. 

The Manufacturers’ Association had proclaimed its goal of doubling its export value by 2025, but now members would be struggling to retain their existing markets. 

The extended SoE and curfew would be another telling blow to the private sector, but in a land without statistics it would be difficult to tabulate the exact extend of the jolt. 

In any case, the Prime Minister has said he is no preoccupied with the effect on livelihoods.