Requirements to show vaccine passports in restaurants and at many events came into effect Monday, Sept. 13.
In Princeton, restaurants contacted by The Spotlight said they would comply with regulations stating customers must prove their vaccination status, while one coffee shop claimed it is exempt.
“We have always followed the provincial health orders…and we will follow the provincial health orders,” said Renee Goreas, who operates Little Creek Grill with her family.
She noted the strain the pandemic has put on restaurants, and the need to support her staff. “This weighs heavily on my heart.”
The Copper Pit will also abide with the passport requirements.
“We’re following the order as set out by the ministry,” said owner Curtis Pedwell.
“We don’t really have much of a choice. (“It) doesn’t matter if we believe in it or not.”
Randy McLean, owner of Billy’s Restaurant, said his business too will comply.
“Of course. It’s the law.”
McLean is also president of the Princeton Posse Junior B hockey team, noting vaccine passports will also be required for anyone attending games this season.
The Brown Bridge Pub will also require proof of vaccination.
“It’s a provincially mandated policy. It’s not our choice to do it,” said manager Andrew Gauld.
Jerome Tjerkstra owns Thomasina’s, a downtown cafe, with his wife.
He told the Spotlight the business is exempt from the order as it applies only to licensed restaurants that provide table service.
Thomasina’s does not offer table service and is not serving alcohol, he said.
Related: Princeton man calls 911 after restaurant customer is refused breakfast
He expressed frustration with government regulations throughout the pandemic and in light of other challenges.
“When you add it all up, fires, smoke, car accidents, the travel ban and now the vaccine passports, it’s a wonder any (of our businesses) is still alive.”
A representative from Divots at the Princeton Golf Course said the restaurant will also enforce proof of vaccination for service.
According to a telephone message, the eatery at Livin It is currently closed and the Livin It gym is open to card lock access only.
The province says vaccine passports are required for everyone aged 12 and over at the following establishments and events.
Passports can be downloaded online at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/vaccinecard.html.
Anyone without a computer can order a paper copy over the phone by calling Call: 1-833-838-2323 , and hard copies can also be printed at Service BC office. Passports are not required to enter grocery stores, liquor stores, pharmacies, banks, salons, hotels, resorts or campgrounds.
Related: Majority of businesses in Penticton and Wine Country support vaccine passports, poll
Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email:andrea.demeer@similkameenspotlight.com
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Vaccine passports are now required to access some services, businesses and events.
