When the hospitality sector was forced into its second closure on 26 November 2020, there was disbelief among its members. By now, bars and restaurants have been closed for 77 days in total, as the government has moved from one extension to the next. Businesses no longer see a way of supporting themselves and are doubtful that the sector will be allowed to reopen after 21 February, the most recent deadline in the lengthy process.
Xavier Goetschy, 35-year-old owner of the Brasserie Beaulieu in Bonnevoie, was present at the protest march on Thursday, and his demands were clear: "Solid aid, which can easily be requested and quickly approved, as well as paid."
The event organisers announced on social media that 600 people were present at the protest march on Thursday afternoon. Luxembourg's complete hospitality sector offers around 22,000 jobs.
The association Don't forget us, which was founded in October 2020, unites all members of the hospitality sector that have suffered under the pandemic.
Despite the cold, restaurateurs and bar owners gathered in the city centre to loudly voice their despair. The situation is growing increasingly troublesome for most of them, and many already have to rely on external support, including families and friends.
At the beginning of the event, attorney Frank Rollinger, who represents the association, put forward a law proposal for the hospitality sector, which is addressed at Chamber president Fernand Etgen. Rollinger noted that the strength of their proposal lies in the "covering of fixed costs, as well as retroactive aid dating back to 1 March 2020."
The European Union has already given its seal of approval to the measure, which also includes a reduction of the loss rate to become eligible for support from 40% to 30%.
