The statement released to the press reads: “Although no case of people infected with the new coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Algarve has been confirmed, until 1 pm on Friday, the 6 March, and the degree of risk is constantly being assessed by the competent authorities, the Algarve Regional Health Administration (ARS Algarve) and the Algarve Tourism Region (RTA) have been following the evolution of this phenomenon in closely, following the guidelines of the Directorate-General for Health.

“Thus, the presidents of RTA, João Fernandes, and ARS Algarve, Paulo Morgado, considered it essential to meet with associations representing the tourism sector to inform about the evolution of the epidemic, clarify the available health responses and establish prevention procedures and infection control in companies.”

Involved in the talks surrounding COVID-19 in the Algarve were the Algarve Tourism Association (ATA), the Algarve Hotels and Tourist Enterprises Association (AHETA), the Algarve Hotel and Similar Industry Association (AIHSA), the Portuguese Hotel, Restaurant and Similar Association (AHRESP), Associação da Hotelaria de Portugal (AHP), Business Association of the Algarve Region (NERA), Faro Airport, World Health and Wellness Tourism Association (AMTSBE), Rota Vicentina and Portuguese Association of Recreational Ports (APPR).

“Public and private entities have a fundamental role to play in protecting the health and safety of residents and visitors, so close cooperation between the State and companies is crucial in limiting any negative impacts on society and the economy,” said the statement.

“In this sense, the contributions of these associations were collected on the main concerns and needs identified with the respective associates, and the degree of implementation of the contingency plans at company level was also assessed. Likewise, the president of ARS Algarve made himself available to carry out a training course for hotel directors on COVID-19, which should happen soon”.

The statement concluded: “For the Algarve it is essential to ensure that the sector contributes to the containment of COVID-19, in order to guarantee security and minimise the current and future impact on the regional tourism operation.”