BC’s Hospitality Industry in crisis, waiting for clarity on latest Public Health Orders

Dear ABLE BC members and industry colleagues,

As you are aware, on September 8, BC’s Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry announced a number of strict new restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19.

More than a week after Dr. Henry issued verbal orders ending on-premise liquor sales at 10 pm, BC’s hospitality industry is still waiting to see the written document outlining the details of the orders.

Pubs, bars, and restaurants are in turmoil and experiencing devastating financial losses with no idea how to comply with an unpublished order.

Despite not being consulted in advance of this order, on September 11, the Business Technical Advisory Panel submitted data to government about the immense economic fallout from the order, as well as practical recommendations to achieve Dr. Henry’s stated objectives while balancing the financial realities of our industry. 

Download a copy of BTAP’s letter.

We received a response from the Attorney General. But so far, Dr. Henry has not replied to BTAP’s serious concerns.

Our industry therefore has no choice but to ask Premier Horgan to intervene and help save large swaths of our industry from certain bankruptcy.

Download a copy of the press release from BTAP this morning, calling on the Premier to intervene and Dr. Henry to bring industry representatives to the table – before it is too late.

We will keep fighting to get this order changed.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us: info@ablebc.ca.
-Jeff