Statement by the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Opportunities and Asset Management, Alderman James Vos

I am glad to hear President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement that the Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) is being re-implemented and also that businesses whose permits might have expired in the past year, will not be penalised until the end of 2022.

This will provide much-needed relief to small business owners and their staff whose livelihoods are surely on the brink. It’s also positive news that eateries will be allowed to welcome patrons again. Sadly, I fear it might be too little too late for so many restaurants and other hospitality service providers that have been forced to permanently close their doors.

This is why I am urgently calling for the national government to reconsider its decision on the curfew for eateries. Every single hour of trading lost is income lost for these businesses. Furthermore, the Department of Small Business Development must step up its relief fund for SMMEs.

In terms of the vaccine rollout, it is welcome news that this has been sped up. I am also happy that Athlone Stadium, a strategic asset within the Economic Opportunities and Asset Management Directorate, will be used as the site of the first drive-through and walk-through mass vaccination site in the Western Cape. This will be a huge boost when vaccinations are rolled out to 35 to 49-year-olds from August.

Cape Town business owners, please don’t forget to use the resources available through the City. This includes:

The Business Hub which can be emailed at business.support@capetown.gov.za or go to the website: https://www.investcapetown.com/how-can-we-help/business-hub/

The Productivity Efficiency Programme for SMMEs employing between 15-50 workers

The Jobs Connect Workforce Development Programme, which connects businesses and work-hungry individuals

Working with Special Business Partners in Cape Town’s high growth industries. See more here: https://www.investcapetown.com/how-can-we-help/key-partners/

These are just a few. Find out more at InvestCapeTown.com or email info@investcapetown.com.

And let’s all continue working together in observing Covid-19 protocols so that we can bring the infection rate down and save lives.

If you or anyone you know is eligible for the vaccine and hasn’t received a jab or an update about your vaccine appointment, you can get more information on the City’s website here: https://www.capetown.gov.za/general/coronavirus-updates

And please support our local businesses in whichever way you can. Together, we can do this!

Source: City Of Cape Town