Council's message on being Covid aware in licensed premises
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The Highland Council, NHS Highland and Police Scotland are working closely to ensure that we all stay alert to the threat of COVID-19. The public are being asked to be vigilant and observe all guidance especially when attending licensed premises.
Councillor Allan Henderson, chairman of the Highland Council's Communities and Place Committee said: “We have had good compliance in the Highlands with the coronavirus restrictions and we need everyone to continue this great work. This includes the public who should enjoy the hospitality but must be responsible when it comes to the Covid precautions and follow any arrangements or rules businesses have in place.”
The Highland Council and Police Scotland are continuing to carry out joint patrols to provide advice to businesses and check Covid precautions. Environmental Health will actively follow up where concerns are raised of premises failing to properly implement effective Covid controls. Depending on the nature of the concerns this may simply require some additional advice being provided regarding the premises existing controls, or an officer undertaking a visit to conduct a review of the arrangements in place and if necessary take any appropriate action to protect public health.
Alan Yates, Highland Council's environmental health manager, added: "It is vitally important that that licensed premises continue to follow the Scottish Governments Covid guidelines for the hospitality and tourism industry including the advice on queue management and collecting customer’s contact details. We are working closely with businesses, Police Scotland and NHS Highland to ensure no complacency is setting in and the Government’s guidance continues to be followed."
For further information, the Environmental Health team has produced a guidance note for pubs and restaurants which supports the Scottish Government’s advice. It is available on the Highland Council's website at: https://www.highland.gov.uk/downloads/file/22693/coronavirus_covid-19_environmental_health_guidance_for_pubs_and_restaurants.
If the public or businesses have any queries on Covid precautions or wish to raise concerns regarding a particular company, they are advised to email the Council’s Environmental Health team at: envhealth@highland.gov.uk
