The final decision as to whether Carnival 2015 will happen may well be decided based on guest arrivals. Fear of contracting the Ebola virus in a small third world country without secure amenities and trained staff could lead to many people cancelling reservations. It is envisaged that many people worldwide will just not travel during 2014/2015, until more is known about the control of Ebola.
There is the distinct possibility that even close relatives and friends may opt not to visit T&T for Carnival 2015. They are fully aware that the talk of being ready does not mean a degree of readiness to effect the requisite protection that will be obtainable in the United States or Europe. It is not just about buying a costume you may not need. It will be for the hoteliers and the travel agents to keep the stakeholders abreast of visitor arrivals/non-arrivals.
Can we realistically medically deal with even 100 people showing up on our shores with a questionable temperature? Where will we find enough staff and where will the patients be safely quarantined? Do we simply empty Mt Hope and send everybody there?
Lynette Joseph
Via e-mail