Horgan confident after first few days of Vaccine Card program

B.C. Premier John Horgan is encouraged by the acceptance of the Vaccine Card in the program’s first few days.

The requirement for people to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination in order to access non-essential services and businesses began on Monday, Sept. 13, and Horgan said that, as of noon on Friday (Sept. 17), 2.7 million British Columbians had downloaded their cards.

Speaking with members of the media on Friday, Horgan said while the program has seen widespread support, there have been some outliers who are trying to skirt the regulations, but calls them a ‘decidedly small minority’.

“I believe it’s imperative for all of us who are frustrated and angry and tired with COVID-19 to have an opportunity to gather, to participate in their community activities — these are non-essential activities — confident that the people around them have made the same sacrifices and taken the same steps to protect themselves and the ones around them,” said Horgan.

The premier went on to say this is a non-partisan initiative with people across the political spectrum getting their vaccinations.

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Horgan added that bylaw officers, conservation officers and WorkSafe personnel are working together to enforce these regulations, but does say that the Vaccine Card, like past health measures, will be handled with a soft touch. He also said the province is working with businesses who are struggling with the costs of purchasing a smartphone or tablet to use to scan the QR codes, which need to be checked against photo ID.

He did note that, as it’s still a new program, there ‘will be some bumps along the way,’ but is confident it is succeeding in giving people a sense of comfort as they partake in non-essential activities and services, while also protecting the health and well-being of British Columbians.

Horgan said the few, loud voices who are trying to push back against the Vaccine Card program or other public health mandates such as mask requirements should be directing their anger towards the proper source, and not at businesses or employees.

“The reception and hospitality folks at the front door of restaurants should not be abused by people who have a different point of view,” said Horgan.

“But they are a distinct minority, and those that disagree with 2.7 million British Columbians and counting, should take it up with their elected representatives, not with the people who are trying to make a living, trying to provide services to people.”

The NDP premier went on to re-emphasize that a vast majority of British Columbians are comfortable with the current public health measures, adding that the sooner people get vaccinated and reduce the transmission of COVID-19, the sooner these measures can be lifted.