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Thousands of national hoteliers want to claim compensation from the state due to closings in the coronavirus crisis.
AUSTRIA At least during the first two weeks of the blockade since mid-March, when the old epidemic law and an epidemic ban was established instead of an entry ban, many tourism companies are awaiting compensation, according to the Salzburger Nachrichten over the weekend. Most requests for compensation are in Tyrol with around 3,500, in Salzburg it could be more than 2,000 according to estimates by the Austrian Hotel Association (ÖHV). The state may have to pay hundreds of millions of euros in claims, the newspaper said.
The Salzburg Chamber of Commerce is assuming compensation for hoteliers during this period, but the payment will take at least six months. However, the claim is “fundamentally indisputable,” quotes division manager “SN” Reinhold Hauk. According to the report, other experts argue that even compensation for a longer period of time is possible, since the entry ban for vacationers amounts to a closure.
It has not yet been legally clarified whether and for what period compensation should be paid. The higher courts will deal with clarification.
As announced by the Minister of Tourism, accommodation providers may reopen on May 29, 2020. Details on safety and hygiene requirements should follow in the coming days. Gastronomy is allowed from 15.05. Unlock between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. ÖHV President Michaela Reiterer: “We need clarity on the future roadmap to secure business through rapid liquidity and tax measures.” The Austrian Hotel Association supports its members, 1,500 quality companies, with the “Smart Restart” initiative with up-to-date information, individual assistance and practical advice, such as a hygiene guide for reopening due to the Corona crisis.
NEOS Criticizes New “Ghost Hour” Regulation
NEOS business spokesman Sepp Schellhorn criticized that the entry ban for the hotel and accommodation industry should expire sometime before June 30. “Restaurateurs and hoteliers simply must believe Köstinger and Co. that bars can reopen from May 15 and hotels from May 29, they cannot legally trust them! This is not worthy of a constitutional state.” Schellhorn also criticizes the fact that the regulation lacks the corresponding provisions, that entry bans in the catering sector and accommodation establishments will expire on May 14 or 28. This lacks legal certainty.
