Question reference: S6W-00227
- Asked by: Pauline McNeill, MSP for Glasgow, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 26 May 2021
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Current status: Answered by Ivan McKee on 3 June 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what assessment it has carried out of the ventilation in night-clubs in response to the risk of the spread of the COVID-19 virus, and to what extent the findings of this assessment supports the reported comment by the National Clinical Director that these venues are "dingy, poorly-ventilated spaces".
Answer
We have considered the transmission risk associated with close contact and the mixing of individuals in such environments, including engagement between clinicians and nightclub owners and a visit to see the sector in operation.
We do not underestimate the severe impact this pandemic has had on nightclubs across Scotland, but we must move very carefully to ensure continued suppression of Covid-19. Ventilation is just one of the factors that needs to be considered in relation to nightclubs alongside dancing, loud music and alcohol which each add a compound factor to the risk involved. We will keep plans under review and accelerate the lifting of restrictions if possible, and we will continue engaging with the sector on this.