Takoradi, June 11, GNA – The government has eased the restrictions on the operations of cinemas and theatres after months of intense agitation by the actors in the Creative Arts Industry affected by the continuous closure due to Covid-19.
However, operators would have to apply for permits from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to operate.
Mr George Nkrumah Ansere, Western Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), who confirmed this in an interview with the GNA, said the decision to ease the restrictions followed series of engagement with stakeholders in the industry.
He said President Akufo-Addo, in his last address to the nation on Sunday, May 16, tasked the GTA and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to finalize guidelines for the operation of cinemas and theatres.
He said the guidelines were finalized and operators could apply for permits to operate based on the newly agreed protocols.
He said per the guidelines, prospective operators would apply to the GTA for an operational permit with attached guidelines and upon receipt of the application, a team of Inspectors would visit the Cinemas or Theatres to assess compliance with the operational guidelines.
However, Mr Ansere stated that the permits when issued could be withdrawn for non-compliance with the operational guidelines.
He said the decision had come as welcome news for the industry stakeholders, who have in recent times appealed to the President through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MoTaC) for the easing of restrictions.
He gave the assurance that the GTA would ensure that the permits were granted without delays and challenges.
He, therefore, called on the operators, especially prospective ones and those whose licenses had expired in the Region to take advantage of the relief, while complying with the guidelines which would not be compromised.
GNA