WHY NOT GYMS, CASINOS?

CASINOS and gyms have remained closed – and their operators are wondering why. 

In July 2020, these establishments were permitted to reopen, along with bars, beaches, cinemas and restaurants. 

At that time, amusement parks and team sports were given the green light to resume, and public transportation was allowed at 100 per cent. 

Larger congregations were also permitted in public places. 

Cinemas were also allowed to screen movies. 

The government’s decision to debar casinos and gyms from reopening their doors is causing consternation in both sectors, which each employs thousands of workers. 

The authorities have acknowledged that the personal care business – spas, hairdressers, barbers – require close human contact. 

But these operations were permitted to resume activities on Monday, while gyms and casinos still cannot entertain patrons. 

The Trinidad and Tobago Members’ Club Association, to which casino owners belong, is planning to protest the continued closure. 

“The government’s one-sided decision makes no sense,” said an official of the association. 

“Gaming is entertainment,” he stated, “and the country badly needs outlets for relaxation.” 

He noted that many casino workers are single mothers. 

Some gaming operators have looking to open shop in Guyana, which has become a buoyant economy with huge oil finds. 

The huge United States casino sector has been allowed to operate, with strict social distancing restrictions.