Govt urged not to enforce curbs

MICRO Small Medium Enterprise (MSME) Council president Desmond Yaninen says the Government must not enforce a lockdown despite a spike in Covid-19 cases.
Yaninen suggested that the Government instead maintain other Covid-19 response measures such as mandatory wearing of face masks and social distancing, among others.
He said the MSME sector could not afford another lockdown which would negatively impact business and the economy.
“We appeal to the Government to maintain Covid-19 restrictions from last year without reinstituting a lock down,” he told The National.
“In the light of a reported increase in Covid-19 infections, the MSME Council wishes to inform the Government that small businesses cannot afford another lock down.
“The loss of revenue for businesses from lockdowns is expensive and crippling.
“MSMEs have adjusted to the new normal and are ensuring compliance to social distancing, wearing masks and sanitising hands.
“A total lock down would cripple PNG and turn us into beggars.”
Yaninen also highlighted that last year some K1.5 million per district was given to help them provide relief to MSMEs that were affected by the lockdown.
“None of the MPs have been able to show what they have done for the sector using those funds,” he said.
“Any funding assistance to MSMEs as relief for the Covid-19 should have another disbursement mechanism rather than being paid directly to districts.
“Furthermore, of the K600 million that was allocated to help businesses last year during the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns, many SMEs still have debts unsettled by Government agencies.
“The main request last year was that businesses did not want hand outs.
“They just want their debts settled.”