The last few days have been incredible on a national scale, with several severe but necessary measures announced by the Legault government in connection with the coronavirus pandemic that is currently sweeping the planet: Isolation required for certain Quebecers, ban on gatherings more than 250 people and schools closed. These new recommendations raise fears for the worst for restaurateurs across Quebec.
Already, some establishments in several cities in the province recognize a drop in ridership in recent days. Groups that had booked several weeks ago are starting to cancel their trip.
Sooner or later, collateral impacts could hit a whole section of our economy hard: drop in restaurant turnover, decrease in the number of hours worked by employees, therefore loss of wages, reduction in food orders from local producers , etc.
However, all restaurants have quickly implemented policies and preventive measures to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus between employees and consumers. These policies were announced on social media and posted in restaurants to reassure customers.
Obviously, the policies put in place concern the hygiene of employees, who must wash their hands more often than usual, but also the cleaning with disinfectant products of all door handles, both in the kitchen and in the dining room, and the equipment and tools used.
Restaurants are also asking consumers to follow basic personal hygiene measures themselves.
Remember, this industry is governed by very strict hygiene rules in normal times. With what is happening now, restaurateurs are only increasing already considerably important imposed measures.
Among the restaurants that can accommodate more than 250 people in normal times, the government's instructions will be respected. The total number of customers will never exceed the new limit set. Many places have decided to space the tables to minimize proximity to other customers.
Also, in order to attract as many customers as possible who are always able to travel and want to help families in their own way who are having to deal with a new break week on their hands, restaurants will offer children meals at a discount or simply free of charge.
For those who hesitate to point the nose outside, or who are forced to do so because they return from travel, will also be able to use the delivery services. Several restaurants have set up a delivery service especially for the duration of the current crisis.
So, with all the measures in place, there is no reason to stay home unless you return from your trip.
We must continue to support our restaurateurs!
