Hotel Fined £20,000 For Breaching Covid Guidance

The Marina Metro Hotel at Havre des Pas has been fined £20,000 for repeatedly breaching Covid-19 guidance.

Footage from police officer body-worn cameras showed customers continually failing to distance, dancing to loud music, and shouting and drinking whilst standing.

There was also one occasion where a private event 'far exceeded' the 40 person limit allowed for gatherings.

Concerns were first raised after two-late night visits by police officers in September. The hotel was given advice several times by Health and Police Officers, but despite that, the breaches continued.

Salt & Pepper Pots Limited was issued the fine before the Licencing Assembly following a hearing yesterday (Monday 19 October).

A prohibition notice was served on the hotel under the Health and Safety at Work Law on 25 September. The licensee was then referred to the Licencing Assembly by the Attorney General.

"Despite numerous visits and provision of advice from representatives from across all the regulatory bodies the Marina Metro Hotel persistently breached guidance which is in place to protect Islanders and to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Jersey.

"We are all responsible for helping to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 within our community, but hospitality venues have a particularly important part to play to ensure we can continue to enjoy the freedoms we have managed to achieve. This involves not just the licensees, but also all of those visiting such venues, playing their part to ensure the safety of those around them, and to act accordingly.

"I would urge any licensees who are uncertain about the Public Health guidance to get in touch with the regulatory bodies to ensure they are operating in a safe manner." - Constable Len Norman, Home Affairs Minister.