GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO | HESSEQUA NEWS - Wendy Alberts, chairperson of the Restaurants Association of South Africa (Rasa), says that many restaurateurs are eagerly awaiting the release of the protocols related to eat-in service after Government's announcement last week that restaurants will soon be allowed to open for sit-down services.
"We have been in constant contact with officials within the various offices of Government, most notably within Cogta (Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs), who have advised that due to the complexities of the regulations that need to be issued, some are still being deliberated on."
Alberts had been hopeful that an update from the department would reach them yesterday, Tuesday 23 June, but last night she told members in a communique that she had been notified by Cogta that there has been a delay in announcing the protocols.
"We have been advised that there is another meeting that will be taking place on Thursday afternoon to discuss the protocols. We have been asked to be patient as the impact of re-opening the industry has major repercussions for many areas within our economy."
Alberts this morning told George Herald that members are ready to open: "We have been ready for 13 weeks. How do you announce the easing of regulations but you don't have protocols in place? That's irresponsible."
She said they are continuing to engage at every level and have urgently requested that the department address the industry with regard to the current situation and when they can expect restaurants to open for sit-down: "We are outlining at every turn the critical urgency and state of the industry as a result of the continued delay."
'Future depends on dine-in rules'
Dean Hahn, a shareholder and co-owner of two Spur franchises and the franchises of Panarotti's, Nando's and RocoMamas in George, said they reopened a few of their restaurants for delivery orders only, just before the lockdown level changed from 4 to 3. It was done in anticipation of the call-and-collect and drive-through options on Level 3, and since Level 3 has come into play, they have seen a big increase in turnover.
Hahn said the future outlook will depend on the conditions attached to the dine-in regulations - whether kids' areas can be opened and liquor sales allowed all week for day and night, and also what seating capacity will be allowed.
"The businesses are still running on skeleton staff levels. Staff and managers have been split into shifts to avoid any transmission of the coronavirus. If anyone becomes infected, a whole shift can be quarantined and business can continue. Staff training is an ongoing endeavor."
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