Chamber calls for renewed support for local restaurants

VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is urging residents to rally behind local businesses and particularly those in the restaurant sector.

As of midnight tonight (March 29), dine-in service at restaurants and bars in B.C. must stop and these establishments can only provide take-out, delivery or patio service. Amended health orders are in place until April 15.

“North Okanagan residents have done an amazing job of supporting their favourite restaurants and bars for the past year, and while the goal posts have changed again, we can continue to do our part by ordering food in or taking advantage of establishments with patios,” said Dan Proulx, Greater Vernon Chamber general manager.

“We need to remember that restaurant owners and their employees are our friends, neighbours and family members, and like all entrepreneurs, they are vital to a healthy community and economy. They need to know that they matter to us.”

The amended health orders are a result of increased cases of Covid-19 across the province.

“We absolutely understand that the pandemic continues to pose a risk and our thoughts are with those who have contracted the virus or who have lost a loved one,” said Proulx.

“However, we also need to reflect on the burden all businesses and employees have endured for the past year, and that a significant investment has been made in retrofitting premises to ensure health and safety. Revenue streams have been disrupted, particularly for small businesses, and employees fear jobs will disappear.”

 The Chamber is calling on the provincial government to establish specific case numbers that must be achieved so health orders can be eased and economic recovery proceeds on a region-by region basis.

“A clear goal for region-based case numbers may mobilize individuals to enhance their personal protocols to reduce transmission, as well as keep the government accountable,” said Proulx.

As part of the March 29 orders, indoor, adult group fitness activities of any kind are prohibited. Gyms and fitness centres are restricted to individual or one-on-one personal training.
 
 
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:    
Dan Proulx, General Manager   
Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
P: 250-545-0771              E: manager@vernonchamber.ca