Late last week, the government ordered several categories of businesses closed and implemented a ‘7 pm to 5 am’ curfew after the territory saw a major surge in COVID-19 cases.

Speaking on the NDP radio programme last evening, Penn commended the government’s efforts to curtail the spread of the virus and offered support for their campaign to get persons vaccinated.

He noted that solidarity was needed now more than ever but said it was imperative for government to also find ways for other businesses to operate safely.

“I know there are certain businesses that we have to shut down because of whatever. But we have to strengthen our protocols where some of these businesses continue to operate in a safe way,” Penn said.

The Opposition Leader also advocated for business continuity strategies and redundancies to be put in place for times when disaster strikes; especially in cases where critical services such as financial services and electricity are being provided.

Penn said he felt persons were lackadaisical in showing respect for the established social-distancing protocols and suggested that stricter measures be put in place to ensure better adherence going forward.