K500,000 fine for gambling, liquor sale: Manning

By MIRIAM ZARRIGA
COVID-19 National Pandemic Response Controller David Manning has reminded businesses involved in gambling and liquor sale activities that they face a fine of K500,000 if they breach the lockdown rules.
“The (lockdown) measures have not been relaxed as yet.
“And any bars, clubs and gambling venues (operating) will be shut down and fined,” Manning said.
He said he was aware of concerns raised by big businesses about the amount of losses they were incurring because of the restrictions imposed in late March.
“There is a fine balancing act with what industries are necessary at this time and what industry we can do without because of the potential risk of transmissions in those industries,” he said.
“I do take note of the concerns raised by certain boards and industries losing revenue in millions of kina.
“However, the revenue earned comes out of people’s pockets, not through taxes.”
He said gambling and other social activities were suspended at this stage.
“We will review the measures focused on the health response advantages, social and economic benefits,” he said.
“Others are required to open to enable us to continue to assist the economy and ensure we have jobs out there.
“When you are faced with a pandemic such as this, it does not discriminate and requires the whole of country response to accept the risk, to mitigate the risks and to consider the type of activities you want to invest your income in.”