Finance Minister clarifies Kempinski layoff comments

 
Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta has clarified comments he allegedly made in connection with a supposed layoff plan by Kempinski Gold Coast City Hotel due to Covid-19 outbreak.
Some online portals widely reported on Saturday that the 5- Star Hotel was planning to layoff 85% of its workforce and close four floors over the pandemic. The reports were attributed to the Finance Minister.
Speaking on Joy FM’s news analysis show, News File on Saturday, Mr Ofori Atta indicated that the hotel is paying some staff who have  beena to go home due to a drop in the  occupancy rate as the covid-19 outbreak hits businesses hard. This contradicts reports that 85% of staff have been laid off.
Meanwhile Kempinski in a statement, debunked the layoff claims saying it has “no plans to close down or retrench any of its staff at the moment.”
“We observe and follow the strict guidance and recommendations by the national and local authorities and we have put in place significant measures to ensure smooth business continuity. The well-being of our guests and staff remain our utmost priority,” the statement said.
Below is the full statement:
Accra, 04.04.2020 – “Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra is aware of news stories circulating in the media about an imminent retrenchment and possible closure of the Hotel in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This news is incorrect. Hotel Management wishes to clarify that the Hotel has no plans to close down or retrench any of its staff at the moment
We observe and follow the strict guidance and recommendations by the national and local authorities and we have put in place significant measures to ensure smooth business continuity.
The well-being of our guests and staff remain our utmost priority.
Ghana I Atinkaonline.com