The three Leiden nightclubs that wanted to join the national protest action De Nacht Staat Op this weekend and wanted to open their doors at night, have decided not to do so under the pressure of the municipality of Leiden. On Friday afternoon, the three night catering businesses received a preventive penalty of 50,000 euros, which will be collected if they nevertheless decide to admit visitors.
In several cities the night catering opens its doors for once on Saturday evening. They disagree with cabinet policy, which has forced them to remain almost completely closed since the start of the corona crisis. This week, penalties were imposed in several other cities, although the amounts are much lower. In Tilburg, a fine of 10,000 euros applies, in Amsterdam and Utrecht 4,500 and 4,000 euros respectively. With the exception of Leiden, the night catering industry has announced that it will implement the action in all cities.
In a reaction, Leiden mayor Henri Lenferink (PvdA) says that he deliberately opted for such a high amount. “It is a preventive penalty. The word says it all: the goal is to prevent the violation. If it’s too low, it won’t prevent its target. So that’s why we’re betting on my advice at 50,000 euros.”
‘National campaign nevertheless successful’
On Saturday, the Leiden venues wanted Gebr. The Nobel, Kiki Club and Wibar open the doors again. The management of Wibar lets in a message on their social media channels to let visitors know that the action in Leiden will not take place. “Unfortunately, a penalty of €50,000 will be imposed if we open on Saturday. This risk is far too great for us and we cannot take it.”
Despite the fact that they cannot participate, the management of the Wibar foundation sees the action as successful. “Positions and clubs are united all over the country. The support to keep the night closed even longer is completely gone. This was evident from the massive sale in just two days and the many media reports in which disbelief about large fines predominated. This led to several emergency meetings between government and security services, resulting in strikes by police and BOA unions. Nicely done together!”
In addition to Leiden, Haarlem also opts for a hefty penalty, which can also amount to 50,000 euros. Nevertheless, pop stage Patronaat has announced that it will open its doors after all. “For as long as it takes,” director Jolanda Beyer explains to ANP news agency. Beyer expects the case to be cleared soon, and has advised visitors that the party is unlikely to last until the promised 4am.
#Leiden #night #catering #industry #waives #threat #hefty #penalty #payment #participating #protest