Chamber concerned by impact of COVID-19 restrictions

The Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce said many of its members are struggling to support their businesses due to the recent public health restrictions.

In a Jan. 24 release, chamber officials said a recent poll of member businesses showed 40 per cent of respondents have been significantly impacted by the new restrictions.

"While the chamber is understanding of the latest enhanced public health measures, our members are becoming increasingly concerned,” said CEO of the chamber Robert Godfrey.

Respondents are also concerned that gaps in COVID19 supports for businesses are leaving some business owners with very few options.

“Many of these businesses are on their final string, and the business support programs in place are not helping bridge the gap throughout this partial lockdown,” Godfrey said.

The restrictions have caused 25 per cent of member businesses to lay off staff, and two-thirds said current supports are not sufficient given the circumstances.

“Businesses have adhered to public health guidelines throughout the pandemic and need the government to enhance the level of support today,” Godfrey said.

Forty-five per cent of respondents said they are in favour of a fixed expense grant which would help pay expenses such as electricity and heat.

Though many members are calling for more support, one in eight members said their top priority is reopening their business instead of more support programs.