The anger felt by pub and restaurant owners over the latest coronavirus restrictions is palpable.
They were under the impression the stringent curbs, including closures, would be temporary.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon described the move as a “short, sharp” set of measures. The reality looks a lot bleaker for Scotland’s hospitality trade.
Industry insiders believe the restrictions will go beyond November 2 and are fearful about the impact on jobs.
This is a tragedy because pubs and restaurants have led the way in trying to protect staff and customers.
The night-time economy will inevitably face greater restrictions than the average sector but we need a recovery plan to ensure a jobs crisis does not turn into a catastrophe.
The Scottish Government has often been impressive in communicating what needs to be done during the pandemic.
But now it seems there is a lack of clarity and too much uncertainty in demands placed on a sector that faces ruin.
Sturgeon has to keep the country safe but that doesn’t have to be at the expense of an important part of our economy.
