Dear Editor, it’s good that you’re wanting to keep our paradise safe I’m with you on that. But sooner or later that border has to open because if it doesn’t the economy is going to go kaput – tourism is our main source of income.

The government has to work with TMO (Health ministry) to put in processes to be followed – like someone said before – all has to be fully vaccinated to enter and Covid tested 72 hours prior to boarding your flight from Auckland, still get passengers to either isolate at home or in MIQ for at least 7 to 10 days.

Tania Kamate Nangaiti

(Facebook)

Sure, the people have a right to protest on opening borders, mandates, kids’ vax, etc. But keeping the country closed is a doubled edged sword. The Cooks can’t keep taking loans along with aid, longer term economic viability isn’t there.

What would happen if the government stopped paying a wage subsidy to the people? They’d be screaming for the borders to open immediately.

Ninety-nine (99) per cent of people are vaxxed (single dose) which is a good ratio figure. Whether it be this month, six months, a year, two or more the same risks will be there, new strains will come and go elsewhere. Should wage subsidies run out before the Cooks reopen, it’s pretty much guarantee businesses will close, possibly resorts too. That’s loss of employment, that will also affect those with home or business loans, the spiral of the economy like income will deteriorate.

The Cook Islands can’t afford a major downturn in the future, the country’s loans still need to be paid at varying points. At some point, the country has to open and let vaxxed people in, otherwise the economy could end up being kaput.

Ray Wathall

(Facebook)

At some point, it’s sad to say, but the borders will need to open. The government can’t keep borrowing money.

If there was no government pensions or wage assistance, would you guys be able to afford to keep closed. I pray all will be ok for the wonderful people of the Cook Islands.

Kathy Panetta

(Facebook)

Yes and no to border closing. We fully vaccinated people should be able to travel. This is the reason why we have vaccinated ourselves so we can visit our families.

All governments should allow fully vaccinated people to travel and also be following a set of rules of guidance. I’m sure it will benefit us and our families and businesses.

Joseph Tererui

(Facebook)