Association hails plan

TRAVEL Milne Bay, a tourism industry association, has welcomed Prime Minister James Marape’s plan to open up international flights this month.
“We understand that governments around the world are facing the quandary of whether to consider public health or reboot their economies,” the association said.
“However, we cannot continue to watch the economy tank when it is so vital to all operators’ lives.
“Until there is a Covid-19 vaccine, we will have to adapt to the new normal as to how we handle domestic and international tourists.
“We believe it will be an international selling point for tourists how they perceive a country and its operators are handling the possible threat of the Covid-19.
“Those countries displaying vigilance and care for their visitors will win out against those who maintain draconian restrictions.
“We can live with the virus.
“In Milne Bay, we will encourage our accommodation providers and transport operators to display good sense and maintain appropriate health standards in hotels and lodges and on transportation.
“For the foreseeable future, the local tourist will be our focus and we will bring a Milne Bay roadshow to Port Moresby.”