President of the Ghana Drunkards Association Moses Onyah a.k.a Dry Bone has expressed disappointment over the Tourist Ministry directives that all drinking bars still remain closed.
According to him, they contribute a lot to the development of the country adding that one of the leading industries that create employment in any nation is the beverage companies.
Speaking on Agoo FM today, Dry Bone said they jubilated over earlier statement released by the Ghana Tourist Authority which said all bars, restaurants and hotels can resume operations as long as they observe all the safety and hygiene protocols.
The GTA said all hotels can operate as normal and host their guests, subject to the specified elevated hygiene protocols and social distancing.
It also said food chains and restaurants have been permitted to operate sit-down as well as pick-up and delivery services while observing appropriate social distancing and hygiene protocols.
But the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture later released a statement to counter that of the GTA insisting that all bars and night clubs remain closed as part of efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
It also noted that even though restaurants can resume operations, they can only offer takeout and delivery services.
The ministry’s statement contradicts an earlier one released by the Ghana Tourism Authority which said all bars, restaurants and hotels can resume operations as long as they observe all the safety and hygiene protocols.
Commenting on the matter, President of the Ghana Drunkards Association Moses Onyah said, “yesterday we were much excited and even had a meeting to discuss the way forward when the GTA released their statement. Later when the Tourist Ministry also released a statement to contradict the good news, we were much surprised. The beverage industry contributes a lot towards the economy of the country because when you look at the number of employment created, it’s more than any other sector. Looking at the number of factory workers that have been laid off, it has affected a lot.’’
He told hostess Obaahemaa Yaa Mirekua that, the Minister should reverse the decision adding that ‘’we are highly disappointed because our sector gives them money more than any other industry.