Business frustrations mounting over ‘inconsistent’ capacity limits for Interior Health

North Okanagan businesses are taking a hit due to an inconsistent approach to COVID-19 related capacity limits around British Columbia, according to the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce.

The group that represents about 600 businesses and non-profits has issued a news release questioning why Interior Health (IH) continues with 50 per cent capacity limits for indoor sporting events and theatres despite capacity limits being lifted in other parts of B.C. with proof of double vaccination.

“We are extremely concerned about the disparities between regions and we are calling on MLA Harwinder Sandhu and Health Minister Adrian Dix to take steps that ensure public health while allowing economic recovery to continue,” said Robin Cardew, Greater Vernon Chamber president.

Cardew said the chamber appreciates that Interior Health’s protocols are based on low vaccination rates in the Interior and the potential spread of COVID, but the same situation exists in other health regions.

“If patrons to an event must be double-vaccinated and wear a mask, all communities in B.C. should be treated equitably when it comes to capacity. At a minimum, Interior Health and the government need to provide a benchmark so businesses know what level of cases must be reached before capacity limits shift,” Cardew remarked.

The chamber said Interior Health was expected to provide an update on capacity limits Oct. 22, but as of today (Oct. 27), no clarity has been provided.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry told a news conference Tuesday her office and IH are “reviewing the orders” and that changes to the capacity limits could happen “in the next week.” Until then, IH’s capacity limits of 50 per cent remain for indoor sporting events, concerts and movie theatres.

“How is someone attending a Vernon Vipers game or a concert at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre more at risk than someone pursuing those activities in Vancouver or Victoria if they all wear masks and show their vaccination passports?” Cardew questioned. “Business owners and non-profits have taken significant measures to provide a safe environment for their patrons and staff, while navigating the financial challenges COVID-19 has created since spring 2020.”

Cardew said a consistent set of rules and not a patchwork of protocols based on lines on a map, are needed.

The chamber is urging business owners and residents to contact the provincial government to express concerns about the two-tiered restrictions in B.C. and insist that recovery for all regions must be a priority.