Alex Trelinski
PROTESTORS from the Costa Blanca hospitality industry demonstrated in Alicante City on Monday(September 14) against early closing hours for bars and restaurants and the shutdown of night venues.
Up to 1,000 people took part in a march organised by three regional hospitality associations.
The groups want compensation for the enforced closures caused by measures aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus.
They fear that ‘irreparable damage’ will be done to their sector leading to ‘thousands of workers’ losing their jobs permanently if government aid is not provided.
The main demands include tax and social security reductions as well as keeping the ERTE furlough scheme going until the health situation improves.
In a statement the groups added: “There is absolutely no evidence to suggest that outbreaks of COVID-19 occur in the hospitality industry. We have applied all the health measures to protect our employees and our customers.”
Some outbreaks though do appear to be linked to clubs, notably over 70 cases among younger people who all socialised at a Gandia venue in July.
All nightlife venues have been closed in the Valencian Community since August 18 and the measure will run until at least September 29.
Bars and restaurants have to shut by 1.00am.
