“We’ve got six days to get it figured out”: Kamloops Chamber gathering vaccine card details for businesses

“I think the concern is how onerous is this going to be? Will it slow down the traffic, will there be lineups at the door, how fast can we process the patrons as they come through?”

Carroll says there is plenty left to confirm with the provincial government ahead of next Monday (Sept. 13).

“What we’re looking for is for our members to reach out to us for information. We’ll be working with the government as closely as we can to get answers to questions so that there is some clarity. And I guess we’ve got six days to get it figured out,” Carroll says.

First dose requirements kick in on Sept. 13, and Carroll says one issue with that timing is the businesses that are supposed to be scanning for vaccine cards won’t have the app to do so until that day.

“That’s a little problematic for businesses to try and scramble and get their employees and staff and policies in place to figure out how to use it on the day that it’s required,” he says.

According to Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, they’re hoping the vaccine cards will inspire people who have not yet received a COVID-19 shot to get immunized.

“Without the card, optional, discretionary, social, and recreational events and activities might have needed even more restrictions and measures than what we have in place today.” she stated Tuesday at a media briefing.

And since the program’s announcement, Interior Health Medical Health Officer Dr. Carol Fenton is reporting an increase in vaccination rates.

“For Kamloops specifically, we’re at 82 per cent for dose one over the age of 12 and 74 per cent for dose two over the age of 12. So we’re continuing to make progress there but we’ve got a ways to go still.”

As Kamloops businesses navigate the new program, they ask residents to have some patience and perspective when they’re asked to show their vaccine cards.

“Even if you don’t agree with the vaccine card – be kind,” Carroll urges. “These are, generally speaking, young folks that you’ll be dealing with in the restaurants and cafes. They didn’t make the law. They’re just having to do their jobs. So take it easy on them. If you’ve got things to say or protests to make, it’s your right to do so. But do it to the government and the powers that be that have the ability to change things and try not to take it out on the employees.”

For more information about the vaccine card program, or what current health restrictions are within the Interior, click here.

by Dylana Kneeshaw

“We’ve got six days to get it figured out”: Kamloops Chamber gathering vaccine card details for businesses

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