The Latvian economy is better prepared for the second wave of Covid-19, the Minister of Economics Jānis Vitenbergs (KPV LV) said in an interview with Latvijas Radio on Monday.
“The first wave was news for both health and the economy, but now we are more prepared,” said the Minister of Economy, noting that health is important and must be a priority, because it is about human lives, but it is also important. balance restrictions with economic interests.
“It is my duty as Minister of Economy to have people in work and to be able to provide for themselves, rather than hoping for some public benefits. For example, if we sacrifice an industry for health, public safety, then we need appropriate support.” said Vitenbergs.
He also praised the attitude of entrepreneurs in organizing work to reduce employee exposure and illness. “Our entrepreneurs are very exemplary in this respect. When I visit companies, I see that all the necessary security requirements are met, companies are creative and address these issues in order to stay afloat – shifts do not meet each other, employees are isolated when eating lunch,” said Vitenbergs.
The Minister also noted that he would not want to allow new significant restrictions to be introduced in Latvia.
At the same time, Wittenberg pointed out that the representatives of the tourism industry have expressed a request in the discussions: “let us crawl until spring”.
The Minister said that the tourism industry does not expect significant support mechanisms, but the industry needs support, including to be able to pay for heat in the winter season. Therefore, it is planned to ask for a review of the existing support tools, as well as it would be necessary to agree on support from the banks in order to prevent the mass insolvency of companies.
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