UPDATE: More COVID-19 Restrictions Announced for Holiday Season

Dear ABLE BC members and industry colleagues,

This afternoon, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced sweeping new COVID-19 restrictions to address rising COVID-19 cases that are threatening to over-stress B.C.'s healthcare system. These restrictions are in addition to the orders that took effect on Monday, December 20th.

These revised measures take effect on Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. and will extend to January 18, 2022 at 11:59 pm:

  • Nightclubs as well as bars or lounges not offering full meal service are ordered closed.

  • Table size at pubs, bars, restaurants, and cafes are limited to a maximum of six patrons per table, and tables must maintain two metres distance between tables (or use barriers such as plexiglass)

  • No organized indoor social events and gatherings of any size.

  • Concerts, sports games, and theatres are reduced to 50 per cent capacity, regardless of venue size, and patrons must remain seated.

  • Gyms, fitness centres, and dance studios are ordered closed

The official Public Health Order is not yet published. We will share a copy as soon as it is available. In the meantime, you can read today's release here.

Reaction from ABLE BC

This is the second time in a few days that our industry has been subject to sweeping new restrictions. That these orders come during what is typically our busiest time of year is not only frustrating, it is deeply damaging to our industry's long-term profitability. While we all support actions necessary to halt the alarming increases in COVID-19 cases, we also know these orders come with a staggering financial cost.

Since these orders were announced, we've have already heard from many members about cancelled reservations, business closures, and staff layoffs. We have been clear in media and with government that our industry needs urgent financial support to prevent more job losses and business closures. We hope to be able to offer more details very soon.

We will circulate more details as they become available. In the meantime, if you have any other questions or concerns please contact Executive Director Jeff Guignard at jeff@ablebc.ca.

Ann Brydle