A majority of people disagree with the government's decision to reopen the country on Nov 1, saying that it is too early, according to a poll.
The opinion survey by Suan Dusit Rajabhat University, or Suan Dusit Poll, was conducted online during Oct 11-14 on 1,329 people throughout the country to ask opinions on Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's announcement that the country would reopen on Nov 1.
Asked whether the country is ready to reopen to tourists without quarantine requirements, a majority -- 60.10% -- said "no" while the remaining 39.90% said "yes."
Asked whether they agreed with the reopening date of Nov 1, 59.86% said "no" and 40.14% said "yes".
Asked to give "necessary conditions" for the reopening 74.78% cited the inoculation of more than 70% of the population; 69.04% the ability to contain the pandemic; 68.31% readiness in terms of health services, hospitals and medical personnel; 66.03% testing of people before entering places; and 65.00% tourist confidence in safety at such facilities as airports, public transport, restaurants and hotels.
Asked to choose "unfavourable conditions" for the reopening, 71.60% said the population has not yet been fully vaccinated; 70.45% the possibility that Covid-19 could spread further in the country; 66.11% the possibility that tourists could bring in the virus; 61.05% concerns over new Covid-19 variants; and 55.92% the lack of clear plans to cope with a further spread of the virus.
Asked to pick "benefits" of reopening the country, 77.29% cited the revival of the economy; 74.74% people would have jobs and could earn a living; 68.07% the country would generate income from tourism; 64.17% tourism-related businesses would revive; and 57.80% investors and business operators would regain confidence in the country.
Asked to cite the "unfavourable effects" of the reopening, 83.43% said Covid-19 cases might again rise; 74.60% the country might again be placed in lockdown; 59.55% the readiness of health services might be affected; 54.85% cases of illegal border crossings might increase; and 48.19% people's living conditions might be affected.
