BVICCHA says most of it members support vaccination

The BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) says two recent online surveys it conducted showed that 63% of members’ support vaccination; nearly 50% said they support requiring employee vaccination; over 90% of member respondents favour the use of rapid testing; and almost 20% indicated that vaccines should be required for hospitality/tourism and essential services employees.

The BVICCHA says it endorses the results of the survey from membership which represents about 50 percent. The Chamber said it will do its part to educate businesses on the benefits of vaccination and encourages the private sector to use its collective voice to do the same and they are encouraging all employees to get vaccinated if they can. The BVICCHA said that some business owners have expressed that vaccination is about providing a safe and healthy workplace and the continuation of business operations. It said the idea expressed is that vaccination alongside public health protocols will minimize the risk of closing due to quarantine and/or self- isolation should an employee become ill or exposed.

The Association said after having had to close or restrict business operations over the last 12 months, businesses are weary of future disruption affecting their sustainability when they are already running on fumes.