After a month of intense agitation by the actors in the creative industry, especially from the quarters of filmmakers, who were grievously affected by the continuous closure of the cinemas and theatres, the Government of Ghana has eased the restrictions on their operations.
Though the restrictions have been eased, the directive from the Government comes with some conditions as operators have been prompted to apply for permits to operate from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).
Government’s removal of the restrictions on the operations of cinemas and theatres in the country follows months of engagement with stakeholders in the industry.
Mr George Nkrumah Ansere, Western Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) who confirmed this in an interview with the GNA said President Akufo-Addo in his last address to the nation on 16th May, 20201 tasked the GTA and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to finalize guidelines for the operation of cinemas and theatres.
He mentioned that the guidelines have now been finalized and operators can apply for permits to be granted to enable them operate based on the newly agreed protocols.
He disclosed that 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 to the operational guidelines.
However, Mr Ansere further enlightened that the permits when issued can be withdrawn as a result of non-compliance to the operational guidelines.
He noted that the decision has come as welcome news for 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 of his outfit in making sure that the permits were granted without delays and challenges and therefore called on the operators who were yet to be licensed or renew their licenses in the Region to take advantage of the relief, while complying with the guidelines.
Source: GNA
