Today’s decision to scrap the COVID-19 Protection Framework and removing the requirement for household contacts to
isolate if they are not ill is the right decision to make.
"Relieving businesses of the burden of enforcing mask-wearing requirements and dealing with hostile behaviour from some
will be a relief to many business owners and frontline staff," says Leeann Watson, Chief Executive of the Canterbury
Employers’ Chamber of Commerce.
"For two years, businesses have navigated the complex and rapidly changing rules that have at times been inconsistent
and outright confusing.
"It is a signal that we are moving on and that the Government is ready to move on, which will renew a sense of trust and
confidence within the business community.
"For the past six months, mandatory household contact self-isolation periods have significantly contributed to the
ongoing staff shortage crisis and has put many businesses under significant pressure.
"The Chamber has continuously lobbied the Government to reduce isolation periods and whilst the seven day isolation
period for those who test positive remains, the loosening of restriction for household contacts is positive news."