NTIA predicts ‘perfect storm’ a month on from ‘Freedom Day’

23-Aug-2021 - Last updated on 23-Aug-2021 at 09:46 GMT

Trade response: 'Our industry cannot be blamed or subject to the failings or impact of other settings, it is abundantly clear the impact of opening our sector has not impacted rates to levels suggested,' NTIA boss Michael Kill says (image: Getty/Michael Blann)

The Night-Time Industries Association (NTIA) has outlined how the Government's plans to introduce mandatory Covid passports will impact the late-night sector.

The trade association said night-time operators had seen “overwhelming support” since being able to reopen but staff shortages and delivery driver issues has hit the sector.

It added feedback from the trade suggested if Covid passports were mandated, firms would see a drop of more than a third, resulting in staffing issues being intensified due to many leaving the sector if forced to be vaccinated to work.

The NTIA went on to highlight there has been a decline in infections and mortality rates in recent weeks, which brings a confidence in the sector’s ability to deliver safe environments.

Operating safely

It added the uncertainty around what trading will look like from October is beginning to impact businesses with bookings and ticket sales stalled as many against the idea of Covid passports or vaccines are requesting thousands of pounds worth of refunds.

NTIA chief executive Michael Kill addressed the Prime Minister and said: “The industry has supported your public health strategy for more than 18 months, proving we can operate safely, without affecting infection rates as many felt we would, so give credit where it is due and allow the industry the freedom to determine its own mitigations as has been done for many years prior this pandemic, but more importantly do not mandate Covid passports.

"Our industry has been exceptional at managing businesses and public health within these settings during this pandemic. As your very words had suggested this year, we will not turn back, and we cannot be subject to mitigations which are ill thought out and are clearly not supported both publicly, politically and industry wide."

Shrinking workforce

Kill added: “Contrary to popular belief, much of our core market and workforce will not accept being coerced into taking the vaccine, the workforce is shrinking and illegal events are being organised today in light of the impending restrictions, how can this be anything but counterproductive.

"Our industry cannot be blamed or subject to the failings or impact of other settings, it is abundantly clear the impact of opening our sector has not impacted rates to levels suggested.

“It's important that the Government recognise the value of our contribution, end the uncertainty, and work with us in recognising the impact of proposed measures.”