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Dix issues warning for those planning on holding weekend events

Dix issues warning to events

British Columbia's health minister urged those thinking of attending large events where social distancing isn't possible to re-think their plans, warning bylaw officers would be out enforcing COVID-19 rules.

Adrian Dix says parties may not be immediately shut down but there would be consequences for those found flouting the rules.

"(Private parties) have been a significant source of problems," he said at a news conference Thursday. "I have to say this: if you're thinking of organizing a party, especially one involving alcohol, where there's no specific limits on distancing that you're putting in place, you should not do so."

He said environmental health and bylaw officers would be out checking banquet halls and other places that hold events to ensure the 50-person capacity limit is being respected.

"They can expect to be visited," he said of those hosting private events. "The rules will be enforced and that will have consequences in the future ... what this is is warning in advance this weekend of what can happen and our expectation, our expectation, that rules will be followed."

People between the ages of 20 to 29 now make up the group seeing the largest increase of infections, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said.

Those infections have been seen after exposure events, such as parties where young adults have been gathering, she added.



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