Kelowna: Chamber of Commerce incoming president Pamela Pearson today commented on the Province’s updating of COVID-19 mandates in BC. “We’re pleased that the Province has announced an adjustment in its approach to living with the pandemic removing the mask mandate as of tomorrow and the end to the use of proof of vaccination in early April.
“We are certain the business community will feel positive about these changes but remind government that for some businesses and in some sectors, it may take years for them to fully recover from the impact of the pandemic,” Pearson continued. “Importantly for the Chamber, it means we can all gather once again and enjoy our networking even more.
Mask wearing is now optional in most settings as of tomorrow except in some healthcare settings. The removal of the mandate requiring vaccination passports as of April 8 will provide a welcome shot in the arm for businesses, restaurants, and bars, and in other settings where the passports have been required.
“The end of the requirement for vaccine passports will likely be well received for a couple of reasons,” says Dan Rogers Executive Director. “Not just because it will allow everyone to access those businesses, but also because it will remove a time-consuming task that was imposed on the business when the government introduced the passport system.”
The ongoing growth of rapid tests in local pharmacies is also good news, and the Chamber is pleased that this useful tool is becoming more available throughout the community. Federal government guidelines remain in effect where they are required. And new guidelines for childcare and K-12 settings come into effect at the conclusion of spring break.
“We’re delighted that our Business Excellence Awards on March 30 are now being held in a more open networking environment at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort,” said Rogers. “It is important for all of us to be patient with each other as we transition to the next phase and we’re also encouraging everyone to show local some extra love this spring as it will make a big difference in helping our regional economy recover.”