The Yacht Hotel Ltd has admitted allowing guests and members to use the jacuzzi, steam room and sauna in its Spa Serene facility between 22 June and 8 September.
A statement released by its general manager, Alcino Vieira, says that the business ‘misinterpreted’ government advice over which facilities to close and rectified the issue as soon as it was highlighted by officials.
Deputy Chief Minister and Economic Development Minister Lyndon Farnham is a director and consultant for the Yacht Hotel Ltd, which operates the business. He declined to comment on the matter.
Mr Vieira said: ‘The team at The Royal Yacht have worked hard to comply with all measures during Covid-19.
‘We are therefore extremely disappointed that we misinterpreted the rules in relation to the opening of the jacuzzi and sauna in our spa complex.
‘The matter was rectified as soon as it was pointed out to us by health officials. We have always and will continue to try and provide a safe environment for both our customers and staff alike.’
Earlier this year the government announced that companies could face ‘unlimited fines’ if they breach workplace physical distancing regulations introduced to combat the Covid-19 outbreak.
The Yacht Hotel Ltd, the operating company for the hotel, pleaded guilty to the breaches in the Magistrate’s Court, which decided to pass the case up to the Royal Court where tougher penalties can be imposed. The charges against the hotel read: ‘Between 22 June 2020 and 8 September 2020, The Yacht Hotel Limited, being the operator of Spa Serene at the Royal Yacht Hotel in the Parish of St Helier, contravened the restriction contained within paragraph 2(1)(b) of the COVID-19 (Workplace Restrictions) (Jersey) Order 2020, namely that you opened the jacuzzi, steam room and sauna.’
A court result document released by the Magistrate’s Court says: ‘Guilty Plea entered. Jurisdiction declined. Adjourned for committal to the Royal Court.’
It adds that the business is charged with opening its spa to ‘guests and members’ during the outlined period.
The Royal Court hearing is due to be held on 22 January.
