Vernon chamber wants to know why capacity restrictions still in place for Interior Health, but not other regions

Photo: Contributed

Dan Proulx

The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is questioning provincial leaders on COVID capacity limits.

General manager Dan Proulx sent a letter to Health Minister Adrian Dix, local MLA Harwinder Sandhu, and Interior Health CEO Susan Brown, asking them to explain capacity limits that remain in effect in the Interior Health region.

While the rest of the province has allowed increased attendance at public events, IH has not.

Proulx notes the "inconsistent" approach to COVID-19 capacity limits across B.C.

"Interior Health continues with 50 per cent capacity limits for indoor sporting events and theatres despite no capacity limits in other parts of B.C. We question how someone attending a hockey game, a concert or a movie in the North Okanagan is more at risk than someone pursuing those activities in Vancouver or Victoria if they all must wear masks and show proof of double vaccination. There is also the reality that an individual from the North Okanagan can attend a venue in Vancouver with no capacity limits and then return home,” Proulx writes in the letter.

Proulx says business owners and non-profits have worked hard to provide a safe environment for patrons and staff while experiencing the financial challenges COVID-19 has created since spring 2020.

"A patchwork of protocols across the province only exacerbates the situation, creating confusion and holding back economic recovery," Proulx asserts.

The chamber is asking for an explanation as to why there are capacity limits, when they will be lifted, and is asking for more transparent and regular communication.

To read the full letter, click here.