After angry protests over the province’s impending new vaccine passport, the B.C. Restaurant and Foodservices Association is calling on the province to offset costs of added security at bars and restaurants before the program comes into effect on September 13.
Association chief executive Ian Tostenson said Thursday the industry feels it should be compensated for the expected pushback and increased cost.
“We are doing this, and we are doing it for the benefit of B.C. to motivate people to get vaccinated,” he said. “It seems reasonable to free up some resources to help us do that.”
From September 13, British Columbians 12 years and older will need to provide proof of at least one dose of vaccine to enter non-essential businesses and events, including sports competitions, nightclubs, restaurants and movies.
Beginning October 24, only fully vaccinated people will be permitted entry.
Given the protests this week near hospitals and already high tensions over mask rules in restaurants, the industry is worried the vaccine passport program will result in tense standoffs at the door.
