OP/ED: MLA speaks to new COVID-19 safety measures
By Katrine Conroy
Dear Friends, Neighbours and Community Members,
British Columbia has one of the highest rates of vaccination in Canada. Over 83% of people age 12 and older in B.C. have had at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and over 75% have received two doses. This is encouraging progress. Each person who gets vaccinated makes themselves and their friends, family, and co-workers safer, and brings us all closer to putting the pandemic behind us.
This week, we took two more important steps in our fight against COVID-19, as we prepare for the fall. I know some people may have questions about these announcements, so I want to provide some clear, factual information.
As of August 25, masks must be worn by everyone 12+ in all indoor public spaces throughout B.C. This includes places like retail stores, grocery stores, public transit and taxis, post-secondary institutions, bars and restaurants (when not seated at your table) and gyms and fitness centres (when you’re not working out). The mask mandate will also apply to all students, staff and visitors anywhere inside K-12 schools, except for students in K-Grade 3. For the complete list, visit this page.
In addition, to keep people safer when visiting the places and events they love, proof of vaccination will be required for everyone 12+ to enter non-essential recreational businesses and events, starting September 13. This includes bars, restaurants, coffee shops, indoor sports events, concerts, casinos, movie theatres, gyms, weddings, conferences, and indoor recreational sports and activities (excluding youth sports). You can find more details here.
We are already seeing the positive impact this step is having. The day after this announcement, there was a 200% increase in vaccine registrations. If you haven’t gotten vaccinated yet, now is the time. To find a vaccine clinic near you, visit this page.
If you have additional questions about these new measures, or any other provincial issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My team and I will be happy to provide you with more information.
My office can be reached at 250-304-2783 (message only) or email Katrine.Conroy.MLA@leg.bc.ca
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