For Immediate Release
September 7, 2021
VANCOUVER, B.C. — Today, Premier John Horgan, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, and Provincial Health Minister Adrian Dix announced additional details for the implementation of the B.C. Vaccine Card. In response, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade President and CEO, Bridgitte Anderson, released the following statement:
“We are now in the fourth wave of the pandemic and it is clear that getting vaccinated is the best thing we can do to keep ourselves and others safe. We believe that the B.C. proof of vaccination system announced today can be helpful in keeping our economy open and avoiding damaging shutdowns, which would be devastating for businesses and the economy.
“Our members support the implementation of the B.C. Vaccine Card as a tool for fighting the pandemic, increasing consumer confidence, and keeping our economy open and safe. We are pleased that the government has additional details and resources, including clear signage that businesses can use so consumers engage in the economy with confidence.
“Importantly, Dr. Henry noted that the utilization of the B.C. Vaccine Card should allow for the gradual lifting of restrictions and capacity limits at some venues and in sectors that continue to face restrictions. We believe that there should be increased clarity about which restrictions will remain on businesses that have proof of vaccination requirements as of Sept. 13. That information could increase the incentive to get vaccinated.
“We encourage all provinces and the Federal Government to prioritize interoperability with similar programs developed across the country, in addition to those developed internationally.”
“That said, we still expect significant challenges with enforcement, the potential for fraud and the risk of confrontation for front-line staff. Our members are also concerned about the lack of opportunity for training just six days prior to implementation and whether the QR code reader will be able to integrate into online booking systems, such as OpenTable.”“At the same time, there are still key questions related to human-rights based considerations and the potential for legal liability for some businesses. Many businesses, especially SMEs, are uncertain as to the legal landscape and their ability or not to require staff to be vaccinated. Businesses need more clarity from the government about their legal authority to implement vaccine status policies in the workplace.
We are pleased to continue to work with the government and our members to support the implementation of the B.C. Vaccine Card to ensure a smooth transition for B.C. businesses.”
More information can be found on the B.C Government's website:
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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:
Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada’s leading business association, engaging members to impact public policy at all levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.’s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through four unique Signature Programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events programs in the country, providing a platform for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.’s business leaders.
Media enquiries:
Victor Young
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 |
