PM: Fast food outlets remain closed

McDonald's on Cipriani Boulevard, Port of Spain. Photo source: McDonald's -
McDonald's on Cipriani Boulevard, Port of Spain. Photo source: McDonald's -

Fast food outlets and street food vending would not be reopening next week as many people hoped.

There was a buzz on social media prior the Prime Minister's media conference at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s, Port of Spain on Saturday about it.

But many were disappointed when Dr Rowley announced, “If we continue on that downward point with no alarm, we should be able to turn and pay some attention to cautiously reopening the services sector, especially the one that is the most out front, which is the food sector.

“We have not forgotten you, we are not ignoring you, we are just doing it step-by-step, as carefully as possible.”

The speculation came about due to several posts, including McDonald’s and Pundit Satyanand Maharaj, spiritual head at the Satya Anand Ashram in Aranguez.

McDonald’s which posted a teaser on its Facebook page had to quickly remove their original post and issue another statement about what it meant.

The post which created confusion and excitement about the reopening of fast-food chain said: “We’re ready to see you again! All McSafe protocols are in place so you can have peace of mind and enjoy your favourite meals! #McDonalds #McSafe #wewillbacksoon #iloveit.”

It was replaced with: “We understand there may have been some misinterpretation of our previous post, and we would like to apologise for any confusion. We await, (like) the rest of the country for an official confirmation on the reopening of the restaurant industry. Our aim was to ensure McLovers that, as soon as it is safe for us to serve you again, we look forward to welcoming you back with the highest standard of safety protocols and the delicious meals you love.”

Maharaj in a post titled “Someone must Answer!” said he received information that selected fast food outlets and brand name coffee houses were preparing to reopen on Monday.

He further alleged that prior notice was given to special establishments and claimed that this was similar to what took place the last time restaurants were closed and carded to reopen.

“Last time, not to recently we saw the same situation unfold, where these same fast-food outlets were cleaned, restocked and ready before any other food outlets!

“Someone must answer! Why is this unequal treatment being allowed to continue! Why isn't the entire food and beverage industry given the same notice?”

He made accusations of unequal treatment and further questioned: “Why isn't the doubles vendor privy to this selectively leaked information? Why aren't we seeing a flurry of delivery trucks delivering all that is need to make the National Street food of Trinidad and Tobago?”

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